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Chapter Text

The roar of the cars speeding by at almost two hundred miles per hour shake that stands as fans all around us scream and cheer for their favorite car.

Never in a million years did I think my little self from Martha's Vineyard would end up at a race track in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This is what Fiyero wanted to do on his last night of freedom before getting married. So, here we are. Drunk and cheering on cars as they go round and round the track.

Fiyero throws his arm around my shoulder and almost loses his beer. "Are you having fun!?" He yells over the people and cars zooming by.

"This place is great for people watching!" I tell him.

"Here you thought, a princess like you wouldn't have fun in place like this!"

I roll my eyes and playfully push him. "Whatever, Tigelaar."

He smiles like an idiot. "After the race, we're going to The Pit."

Meaning a bar not too far from the track.

"Alright." I tell him.

The race ends shortly after, with number 27 crossing the finish line first.

"The winner of tonight's race number 27, Elphaba Thropp!" Says the announcer.

The person in a green jumpsuit climbs out of the car, and I watch on the jumbotron as they take their helmet off. Long dark microbraids fall over their shoulders and down their back. Their helmet comes off, and intense green eyes look into the camera.

Whoa.

The camera zooms out as the person gets on their feet, the overhead lighting making their rich chocolate skin glow.

An interviewer comes over to them, asking a question. However, I do not recall the question as I'm captivated by this driver.

A low feminine voice fills my ears as they begin to speak.

"Coming back with a win like this after the accident I had last season feels great.  I had a couple of close calls trying to close through some gaps, but we'll work those out between now and Daytona." The driver flashes a smile at the interviewer, and I melt.

This woman is the love of my life. I need to meet her.

"Glin, are you alright?" Fiyero asks.

I shake my head, still watching Elphaba Thropp. I grab Fiyero's arm. "I need to have her children."

"What?" He asks.

I look at him and then back to the interview. "Ooh. Glinda, babe, you're in love." He says.

I look up at him. "I need to meet her."

Fiyero laughs. "I don't think that's going to happen. She's a busy woman who I'm sure has someone waiting for her at home. She probably dates super models."

"Not a pediatric nurse, you mean?"

"I didn't want to say it."

I groan. "Thank you for that. Let's go before I burst." I tell him.

"We're stalking her Instagram later, right?" He asks.

"One hundred percent." I tell him as we round up the other guys before going to the bar to continue the party.

While Fiyero and his boys live it up on the dance floor, I hang back at the table.

Usually, I'm the life of the party, but I'm not feeling it tonight. It most definitely has something to do with the woman in the green jumpsuit.

Just as I set down my martini, I feel a presence on my right. I look up, and there is a man who has had one too many standing over me.

"Hey there, beautiful." He slurs.

I roll my eyes and put on a fake smile. "Hello."

"I couldn't help but notice you sitting here by yourself. I thought I'd come over and keep you company." He says, flopping down in a chair before I can stop him.

"Actually, I'm here with friends, and I don't think they'd appreciate you taking their seats." I tell him.

He waves me off. "Who cares. Do you wanna go back to my place?" He asks.

"No. I'm good right here." I tell him.

He leans in, and all I smell is alcohol. "I bet I can make you feel good."

I scoot my chair back to put some distance between us. "No, thank you. I'm not interested."

"Oh, come on. It'll be fun." He says.

I shake my head. "I'd really appreciate it if you left me alone."

A person behind us clears their throat. "Oh, babe, there you are. The bar is swamped." That voice from earlier says.

I gasped but played into it. I turn around, and there stands Elphaba Thropp in boots, dark-wash jeans, and a crisp white button-down with the first two buttons undone.

God, she's so hot.

"Thank you, baby." I smile, accepting the martini from her as she sits down.

"You're welcome." She says, wrapping a strong arm around me.

The guy looks between us, and I lay my head on her shoulder.

The guy stutters and then gets up in a scramble, knocking the chair to the ground.

I lift my head off her shoulder, and her arm lifts from my shoulders.

"Thank you for that. I was not in the mood to deal with a drunk guy." I tell her, tucking some hair behind my ear.

She smiles softly. "No problem."

"I'm Glinda Upland."

"Elphaba Thropp."

"I know. I saw you race earlier." I tell her.

She lifts an eyebrow. "A fan, are we?"

I laugh, shaking my head. "Um, no. I'm here with a friend for his bachelor party. I've never seen a NASCAR race until tonight."

Elphaba nods and sips her whiskey. "The verdict?"

"You're probably not going to like me for this, but not going lie, it's kinda boring. It's great for people watching, though."

She brings a hand to her chest and grimaces. "Ouch. I get it though, watching cars going around and around for two hundred or so laps is not for everyone. Just gotta find the right driver to follow." She winks. "You are right about the people watching part. It's great."

I chuckle into my drink. "Maybe I have found the right driver."

"Who? Tenmeadows?"

"Who?"

She chuckles. "You really don't know anyone from the sport, do you?"

I shake my head. "I grew up a rich kid from Martha's Vineyard. Anything about horse racing, I'm your girl. Cars? Not a clue."

Elphaba swirls the dark liquid around in her glass before setting it down. "So, a horse girl from Martha's Vineyard. How did your friend get you to go to a race track?"

"Bribery. He agreed to take half my night shifts when he got back from his honeymoon. Also, alcohol was promised. Although, he should have told me about this cute driver who wears a green jumpsuit. He wouldn't have had to try so hard."

Elphaba smirks. "Cute, you say?"

I trace my finger around the rim of my drink, blushing. "Hot. My mistake."

Elphaba leans closer to my ear.

Lavender, something smokey and a little car grease fill my nose.

"I think you're pretty hot too, beautiful even."

She leans back and finishes her whiskey, looking satisfied with herself as she crosses her legs, setting her glass down.

I look over at her. "Do you flirt like this with everyone?"

She smirks. "Just you."

Lord, this woman.

"Alright, Thropp." I say, finishing my martini.

"Do you want to go for a walk? Get out of this stuffy place?" She asks.

I look to her then to the dance floor where Fiyero is having the time of his life. He won't even notice I'm gone.

I bite my lip. "Sure."

Elphaba stands, and I follow, grabbing my purse.

She moves out of the way so I can get past her.

Her hand falls gently to my lower back as we make our way out of the bar, making something stir deep inside me.

Once we step out of the bar, she drops her hand to her side.

"So, Ms. Upland. Would you like to get some food with me?" She asks as we walk down the street.

"Depends, Ms. Thropp. Are you asking me on a date?"

Elphaba smiles as she looks at the ground. "You know what, I think I am."

"Then lead the way."

We end up at a small trucker diner down the street from the bar.

We take a booth towards the back of the diner, though there are only a few people in here at this hour.

We order two milkshakes and a basket of loaded fries to share.

"What made you get into racing?" I ask as we wait for our food.

"My grandfather used drive mini-stock since I can remember. The first time, he took me out in one of his cars. I was five. I was hooked on the speed and adrenaline from there on out." She talks with such fondness I can tell her grandfather means a lot to her.

"So then you've been racing for quite some time then?"

She nods. "Yep. Started out cart racing when I was seven, and I've never looked back."

"Good for you."

The waitress comes over with our food and sets it down.

Elphaba takes a sip of her chocolate milkshake and picks up a fry. "What do you do, Ms. Upland?"

I swallow the fry in my mouth. "I'm a pediatric nurse in D.C."

"Fancy." She says.

I laugh. "Thank you."

"What made you want to work with kids in that profession?"

"Promise not to take pity?" I ask. She nods, leaning in. "When I was younger, I had leukemia, and the hospital was my second home, so to speak. I had this really awesome nurse who would take care of me during my treatments. She, in all honesty, made me forget I had cancer because she'd always take me on some adventure and made me feel normal. So, when I was told I was in remission, I knew right then I wanted to do the same for other kids because hospitals can be scary, and I want them to feel comfortable in that environment."

She sits back, her expression soft. "You're a wonder, Glinda Upland. Thank you for sharing that."

I blush and try to hide it in my milkshake. "It gets easier with time. Something changes inside you when you come close to death. It's like a light goes off, and you learn not to let anything hold you back."

"I get that. I was in a really bad accident last season. They didn't think I was going to make it. Something does change within you when death is literally right in front of you." She explains.

I lift my glass. "Here's to surviving a walk with death."

Elphaba chuckles and clinks her glass with mine. "Here, here!"

I laugh as we drink our milkshakes, not taking our eyes off each other.

After spilling some rather dark things, we move on to some lighter topics. We spend the night laughing and getting to know each other until the sun comes up.

Elphaba pays, and we leave the diner heading in the direction of the bar.

"Do you want a ride to wherever you're staying?" She asks.

Shit. Right.

I look down at my phone for the first time and check the time. Fuck. I have to be at the airport in a few hours.

"If you don't mind." I tell her.

"Not at all, but on one condition." She says.

I eye her playfully.

"You say this was the best date that you've ever had, and I get your number." She says.

I give her a playful look. "Best date ever, huh?" I tease pretending to think. "I guess it was alright." I wink.

She groans.

"I'm kidding!" I laugh. "That was a really good date. Thank you for tonight. I haven't had a date like that, well ever." I tell her.

Her smile gets wider.

"I guess this means you also get my number." I say.

She takes her phone out, and we exchange numbers.

All the way to the parking lot of the bar, she smiles like a fool.

She fishes her keys out of her pocket and hits the unlock button.

A green Lamborghini flashes its lights in the corner of the parking lot.

My jaw drops. "Is that yours?"

Elphaba smiles and nods. "Sure is."

We walk over, and she opens the door for me.

"Thank you." I say as I get in.

She nods and shuts the door before going to her side and getting in. We buckle in, and she starts the engine.

"Where to?"

I give her the address of the Airbnb we're staying at, and we're off.

On a road that's pretty much vacant, she punches it for a minute, and I'm pushed back into my seat.

I squeal as we go fast, making her laugh.

Once we get to more populated roads, she goes back to normal speed.

"I get what you were saying about the adrenaline rush."

Elphaba grins. "This is nothing compared to the adrenaline rush you give me."

I blush as I gather my purse as she parks in front of the house.

"Mm, really now?" I giggle.

She nods, leaning a little closer. "Never had anything like it."

I swallow, feeling a little flushed.

Just when I think she's going to kiss me, she kills the engine and gets out to open my door.

She offers me a hand, and I take it as I step out of the car.

She shuts the door but doesn't let go of my hand. 

She leans against the car, smiling.

"I had a lot of fun tonight." I tell her.

"Me too. I hope I get to see you again. I don't know about you, but I'd like to see where this goes." She says, looking down at our hands.

I drop my purse and step between her legs. I cup her face and lean in. I take her by surprise as I connect our lips, but soon after, she's kissing me back with the same intensity, her hands finding my hips, pulling me in.

After the need for air becomes too strong, I pull back, resting my forehead against hers. "Consider that a promise." I tell her.

"I'll hold you to it." She grins.

I go back in for another kiss, then another, then another until I get myself under control.

I push back with a hand to her chest. "You're addicting."

"So are you, but I don't want you to miss your flight." She says.

I groan as she chuckles quietly.

"Then, I better go inside." I say reluctantly.

She stands and kisses my hand. "I'll see you later?"

I nod, smiling. "Yeah, I'll see you later."

She leans down and kisses me sweetly. "Goodbye, Glinda."

I smile on her lips. "Bye, Elphaba."

I step back and watch as she gets in her car.

She revvs the engine, making me laugh before taking off. I watch her until she gets to the end of the street before I turn and walk into the house.

I shut the door behind me and looked up at Fiyero, standing in front of me with his arms folded across his chest like a concerned mother catching their child sneaking in after a party.

"Where have you been?" He asks.

I bite my lip. "Heaven."

Chapter Text

A month has passed since North Carolina. I feel like I'm endlessly floating in a bubble. Funny enough, my nickname from kids here at Children's National is actually Nurse Bubbles. 

But anyway, Elphaba and I talk pretty much every day, whether it be through text, phone call, or FaceTime. Our schedules have been so busy that we haven't had time to actually see each other in person. Long distance sucks. 

Although is it really long distance if we haven't established what we are yet? 

Pfanee slides up next to me as I fill out paperwork while standing at the nurse's station. "When is your beau coming to town?" 

I smile as I look down at the iPad in front of me. "Don't know. She's in Michigan right now for a race. It might be a few more weeks until I see her again." 

Pfanee leans his back against the counter. "Okay, stop trying to be all chill, girl. I can tell it's bothering you." 

I sigh and turn to him. "This is killing me, Pfan. The distance and only seeing each other once when we met. I don't know if this is worth it or not. Is this how it's going to be forever?" 

Pfanee adjusts his glasses and smiles. "I know it's hard right now, but the way you light up when you talk about her and how annoyed you made Fiyero by talking about her nonstop, I say hell yeah, it worth it. The distance sucks, I know, but it won't be like this forever. Give it time." 

I nod. "You're right. It's still very new, and I just need to give it time, but I miss her." 

"I'm sure she misses you too. Talk to her tonight when you get home. Try and figure something out." He says.

"I will. Then after you are coming over for a wine night." I tell him.

He nods, pushing off the counter. "I'll bring the rosé." 

Our pagers go off, and we're pulled in two different directions. 

I knock lightly on the door to one of the patient rooms before walking in. This little boy who is in my rotation just had surgery to correct his scoliosis.

"Hey, Kenny. How are you doing, buddy?" I ask. 

"Hurts. A lot." He groans, tears start to form in his eyes. 

I look in his chart and see that pain medication has been ordered for him. He just hasn't received the next dose since coming out of surgery. 

"I know, buddy. You're in luck because it's time for your next dose of pain meds. I'll be right back." I tell him. 

I grab what I need for the med cloest and come back to his room. I find the port on his IV and hook up the syringe of a low dose pain medication. I push the plunger in, and the medication goes through his IV. 

"There you go. You should start to feel better in a couple of minutes." I tell him.

He gives me a thumbs up as he picks up his tablet, and I discard my gloves. 

I look at his case, and it has in large green block font the number 27 and a collage of Elphaba racing, and different images of her in her fire suit, celebrating wins. 

"You like number 27?" I ask, pointing to his case.

"Yeah. She's awesome. I got to see her in action last year before she had that really bad accident." Kenny says, looking at the case.

I smile, seeing the effect Elphaba has on the younger generations. "I think she's pretty cool, too." 

"You watch NASCAR?" He asks.

"I just got into it a little bit ago. 27 is my favorite driver so far." I tell him. 

"But you're Nurse Bubbles. You don't look like someone who would like racing." He says. 

I chuckle softly. "Maybe, but something changed my mind." I wink. 

He eyes me suspiciously. "Okay..." He says.

"I'll check on you in a little to see how your pain is, alright?" I ask.

I get a nod in response as he's still trying to figure me out. 

After my shift ends at seven, I grab something quick from Chipotle and head home to my apartment in Georgetown.

As I pass the desk to get to the elevator, Darius stops me, holding a beautiful bouquet of flowers. "These were dropped off for you, Ms. Glinda." 

I'm taken by surprise as I take them from him. "Thank you, Darius. Did they say who they are from?"

He shakes his head. "No, but there is a card." 

I find the card and smile.

I will see you soon. I promise. I just have to win this race first :) 

- E. 

"Your secret admirer?" Darius asks.

I grin. "Something like that. Have a good night." I tell him. 

I head up to my apartment and set the floors on my counter before taking a picture and sending it to Elphaba. 

"You really are the sweetest." I send to her. 

I set my phone down and hop in the shower before changing into my sweats. 

I put something on the TV before grabbing my Chipotle and curling up on the couch. 

My phone rings next to me, and I smile, swiping to answer, knowing right who it is. 

"Hi beautiful." Elphaba smiles once the FaceTime connects.

"Hi." I blush as I prop my phone up so I can eat.

"Did you just get off work?" She asks.

"About an hour ago. I got your flowers, by the way. They're lovely. Thank you." I tell her. 

"It's because I'm so sweet." She winks. 

I chuckle. "How'd the race go? I'm sorry I missed it earlier. I didn't really have time to check in at any point." 

Elphaba leans back in her chair. "It went good. I definitely won't say great, though. I placed third, which still keeps me within qualifying, but I left gaps open that I shouldn't have, and my guard was not on point this weekend." 

I frown. "It's because I wasn't there, wasn't it?" 

She smiles and ducks her head. "It's probably because I miss you." 

"I miss you too." I tell her. 

"Yeah?" 

I nod. "Yeah." 

She leans forward, her elbows resting on her knees. "I don't get back to North Carolina until late tonight. I don't know your schedule, but maybe I could drive up tomorrow midday and see you?" She asks in probably the cutest way ever. 

I swear you could see the hearts in my eyes. "Yeah, I'd like that." 

Her smile widens. "Great. Text me your address and I'll see you then." 

Butterflies go off in my stomach. "I can't wait." I tell her, matching her smile. 

"I'll see you tomorrow, beautiful. Enjoy the rest of your night." She says.

"Already counting down." I wink. "I'll see you tomorrow." I blow her a kiss before ending the call. 

I squeal and do a happy dance. I finally get to see her again! 

I look around my slightly messy apartment. Fuck. I need to clean this place. 

First, Pfanee is coming over, and we're celebrating. 

Next day

The intercom buzzes, and I squeal, jumping off the couch to answer. "Come on up!" 

Five minutes later, there is a knock on my door, and I run to answer it. I whip the door open, and my smile falls. 

It's just Fiyero.

He catches on. "What are you not happy to see me?" 

I smack his chest. "I thought you were Elphaba. Besides, aren't you supposed to be with your husband?" 

He nods. "Anthony is down in the car. I just came to pick up my laptop that I left here the other night." 

I grab it for him and practically shove him out the door. He laughs as I do so. 

I shut the door and lean against it, sighing. Then, there is another knock. I groan and whip around to answer it. 

"I swear to God, Yero, if you're here to bug me again -" 

"I'm not Yero, but I'm definitely here to bug you." 

I look up, and there stands Elphaba in a hoodie and jeans, a duffel bag in hand, and an amused grin on her face. 

"Elphie!" I squeal, jumping into her arms. 

She catches me with ease, laughing. "Elphie? I dont know that might be a little too perky for me." 

I lean back, cupping her face. "I know! I'm gonna call you that!" 

She rolls her eyes, and I pull her in for a kiss, conveying how much I missed her. 

"Mmm, on second thought, maybe that name isn't so bad." 

I giggle, jumping down from her arms. "I thought so." I wink, pulling her into my apartment. 

She sets her bag by the door and takes her shoes off before wrapping me in her arms and burying her face in my neck. "I know we've really only talked this last month, and I know we said it last night, but I've never felt this way with anyone before. I genuinely meant it when I said I missed you." 

I smile as my heart skips a beat. "Me too." 

Her lips curl against my neck, and it sends a shudder down my spine. 

I'm falling for this woman. 

I pull back from the embrace and kiss her softly. "Let me give you a tour." 

She picks her bag up and takes my hand as I show her around my little apartment. 

"Pink really is your color." She says, amused after seeing my pink bathroom, the pink accent pillows, and now my bedroom where my bedding is pink along with my vanity. 

She sets her bag down at the foot of the bed and sits down. "This is nice." She says, her hands gliding over the sheets.

"Thank you." 

I step between her legs, running my fingers through her hair. Her eyes flutter closed as her arms fold around my thighs, her head resting against my stomach. 

"I've never felt more safe than I do with you right now." I tell her.

Elphaba looks up at me, grinning wide. "Me too." 

I lean down and kiss her before sitting down next to her. 

"What do you want to do today? We can stay in or go somewhere." 

"Would you be my tour guide?" 

"Only of you ask nicely." I wink. 

"Will you be my tour guide, please?" She asks, sticking out her bottom lips.

I can't help but laugh. "Since you asked so nicely. If you're okay with it. There is one stop I'd like to make before it gets too late." 

Elphaba looks at me curiously. "What is it?"

Thirty minutes later, we pull into the parking lot of Children's National. 

"You said his name was Kenny?" Elphaba asks as she helps me out of her truck.

Not going lie, I'm a little bummed she didn't bring the Lamborghini, but she said the gas mileage was terrible and overall not that great for long trips. 

"Yep. He just had surgery yesterday, and recovery has been painful. I'm hoping a visit from his favorite driver might help." I tell her. "Which, thank you again for doing this. I'm sure this is not what you imagined doing while visiting." 

"I'm happy to help. Hospitals suck so anything to cheer a kid up. I'm all for it." She says as we walk hand and hand to the entrance. 

We head up to the recovery wing, and I introduce Elphaba to some of my coworkers before going to Kenny's room.

I knock on the door before walking in.

Kenny looks up, surprised to see me. "They said you weren't here today." He says.

"You're right. I'm not working today, but I have a surprise for you. You know how yesterday we were talking about our favorite driver?" He nods. "Well, I have something for you." 

I peek out into the hallway and wave Elphaba in. 

He gasps and looks at her starstruck.

"Hey, Kenny. I'm Elphaba. Ms. Glinda told me you had surgery yesterday. How are you feeling?" She asks. 

Kenny looks at me like his brain is about to explode. "I- how did you - what!?" 

I laugh as he tries to figure out how I made this happen.

"I may have left out the part where I actually knew number 27." I wink.

"Ya think!?" He says. 

Elphaba laughs and looks at the case on his tablet. "Nice case." 

"Th- thank you." Kenny stutters. 

"You want me to sign it?" Elphaba asks.

"Really?" He asks.

Elphaba shrugs. "Yeah. Is there a pen or Sharpie around here?"

I run and grab a Sharpie from the nurse's station.

"Thanks." 

She uncapped the marker, and Kenny hands her his tablet. She flips it over and signs her name before handing it back.

"Thank you!" Kenny says like he was just handed gold. Which in his mind it probably is gold.

"You're welcome, kid." Elphaba smiles. 

"Do you want me to take a picture of the two of you?" I ask.

"You'd do that?" Kenny asks.

I nod with a smile. "I'll have one of the nurses print it out and for you." 

"Okay!" He says.

Elphaba turns to Kenny's grandmother, who is staying with him and asks if it's alright if we take a picture.

She happily says yes.

Elphaba goes to the side of the bed and carefully wraps an arm around him. 

They both smile, and I snap a picture. 

I have one of the nurses print out the picture, and I also send them to Kenny's grandma as well.

We stay for a little longer as Kenny talks Elphaba's ear off about how he wants to be just like her when he grows up. 

We say our goodbyes when Kenny has to go back for an X-ray. 

His grandmother thanks us profusely for doing this for him. We tell her it's no problem at all. 

As we walk back to Elphaba's truck, I can't get the smile off my face. "You're a really good person, Elphaba." 

"Nah. It was your idea. I just helped carry it out. I think I'm going to start calling you Glinda the Good." She says. 

I giggle. "Okay, Elphie." 

She groans. 

Chapter Text

After a great first day back together. The next morning, I wake up alone. I frown and get out of bed.

I find Elphaba's hoodie and slip it on over my t-shirt. 

I use the bathroom before shuffling down the hall to the living room where I hear Elphaba talking in a hushed tone. 

I lean against the wall watching as she paces in a navy wife beater and gray boxers as she talks on the phone. 

"No, Shell, you can not drive my Lambo to prom. The last time I checked, Mom took away your license because you almost crashed her car... yes, I know it would make you look cool, but I'm not letting you take it. Why can't you take the limo with your friends?" 

There is a long moment of silence. "Shell, I swear to God, if you're racing again, I will murder you. If you want to race, I will show you the right way." Elphaba spots me and sighs. "Listen, I need to go, but don't think this conversation is over. When I get home, you're in big trouble. I might have to bring Papa into this." 

She smirks as there is a loud, fearful "no!" On the other end. "Alright. I love you too." She hangs up and rubs her temples.

"You're so lucky you're an only child." She chuckles as I close the distance and wrap my arms around her waist. 

"I wouldn't go that far." I tell her, proping my chin up on her chest as her arms circle my shoulders. 

Her eyebrow arches. "You're not an only child?" 

"I am. Just the part about being lucky to have had no siblings. It was actually quite lonely. I never had someone I could share things with our gripe about my moms to where they could understand. I sure as hell have no one calling me at eight in the morning, asking to borrow my Lamborghini." I tell her. 

She looks down at me sincerely. "I'm sorry you never had that experience, but if you want, I could lend you a 6'2" sixteen year old who is a royal pain in my ass to make up for it." 

I pretend to ponder the idea. "Thank you, but I think I'll pass." 

She leans down and kisses me slow and soft. "If you ever change your mind, the offer still stands." 

I giggle, burying my face in her chest. "I will keep that in mind." 

She smiles into my hair. "Good." 

I look up at her with a devilish grin. "Would you ever let me take the Lambo for a spin?" 

She laughs. "We'll see. Although I should probably make you my girlfriend first." She winks.

I step back, folding my arms over my chest. "Well, what are you waiting for, Thropp?" 

She steps closer and intertwines our fingers together. I swear she looks right into my soul as she asks these next five words. "Will you be my girlfriend?"

I try to keep my expression neutral, but I can't help it as I smile so big I feel like my face is going split in two. "One condition, you be my girlfriend too." I tell her. 

"Looks like you have a deal, Upland." 

I squeal, and she laughs as she picks me up and spins me around before kissing me passionately. 

She sets me down on my feet, and I grip her solid biceps as I regain my balance. 

I bite my lip at how strong her arms are. 

"You okay?" She asks.

"Never been better." I tell her. "I think we should go out to breakfast to celebrate our new status." 

"Sounds good to me." 

I take her hand and drag her to my bedroom. "I was thinking, maybe we could shower together? To save water, of course. Only if you're comfortable." 

Elphaba looks at me, amazed. "Even after what I revealed to you last night. You're still okay with this." 

Last night, during a heavy makeout session, Elphaba revealed to me that she is intersex after she pulled away embarrassed because she got hard.

I nod and wrap my arms around her. "Like I told you last night. I don't care that you're built differently. I just want to be with you." I tell her, giving her a reassuring kiss. 

She breathes through her nose and nods. "In the name of saving water, I'll shower with you." 

I grin. "That's the spirit." I tell her. 

I head into the bathroom and start the shower. Once it's at a good temperature, I get in, shutting the glass door behind me. 

I wet down my hair and let the water roll over me. 

The door to the shower creaks open, and Elphaba steps in behind me. 

I turn around, and before she can hide herself, I pull her under the water, kissing her deeply. 

She moans on my lips, and I smirk before pulling away. 

"How do you feel now?" 

"Relaxed, safe, a little turned on by that kiss." She says. 

"Good. That's how I want you to feel." I tell her as I grab my body wash. 

As I start to squirt the soap into my hand, two strong hands anchor themselves on my waist as soft lips kiss my neck. 

"Elphaba..." I whimper. 

She grins against my neck, and that shiver goes down my spine again. I spin around and find dark eyes looking down at me. 

"You wanna do this?" 

"Yes." 

I nod. "Okay." I say, bringing her down for a hungry kiss. 

She backs me up against the glass wall of the shower, her penis growing hard against my thigh.

She pins my hands on either side of my head, threading our fingers together as she kisses a slow, tantalizing path down my neck. 

My breath hitched as her mouth works it's way over my breasts, then down my stomach, swirling her tongue over my belly button and naval. 

"Elphie..." I moan as she picks up my right leg, throwing it over her shoulder.

She starts at my knee and drags her lips across my inner thigh. 

With hooded eyes, she looked up at me with a smirk, and I swear I could have cum right there. 

She leans forward and kisses my mound before her tongue pokes through my folds, giving a broad swipe from my entrance to my clit. 

My mouth drops open, and my hand that is not connected with hers goes right to her hair. 

Elphaba groans as she sucks my clit into her mouth, rolling her tongue over it. 

Unh... yes!" I moan as her tongue edges my entrance before pushing in. 

She thrusts her tongue into me several times before she pushes in two fingers, curling them. 

"Yes! Fuck!" I moan, gripping her hair tighter. 

Her tongue lashes at my clit while she fingers me, hitting all the right spots deliciously. 

My thighs start to tremble, and Elphaba holds me up when my leg gives out.

"I got you. Let go, baby." She says, her voice low and dripping with lust. 

That's all it takes for my pleasure to peak as I cum over her tongue and fingers. 

After I can feel my body again, Elphaba pulls her fingers out and brings them to her lips, cleaning them before standing up.

"How was that?" She asks softly. 

"Really good. Want me to return the favor?" I ask.

She shakes her head. "I don't like blowjobs. It's nothing against you. I promise. It's just that I had an ex who gave me one, and I was not impressed." 

I nod in understanding. "I gave one once before I realized I like women. They're really not all that great. Personally, I don't like the gagging part." 

Elphaba chuckles softly. "Thank you for understanding." 

"Always." I smile before turning around and pressing my front against the cold glass. I turn my head and look back at her mischievously. "Though there is another way you could get off." I wink, sticking out my ass. 

She bites her lip as she hands rest over my ass, giving it a light smack. "Now this I can get behind." 

"I'm on birth control because of my periods, so you don't have to pull out." I tell her. 

"Good to know." She says, trapping my hands above my head with one hand as she uses her other to line the thick head of her cock up with my entrance. 

"Fuck." We both moan as she pushes in slowly as I adjust to the rather large intrusion. 

Five minutes later, Elphaba is buried up to the hilt. I feel like I'm going to split in two. 

Her hands grip mine as she pulls her hips back slowly and pushes forward, finding her rhythm. 

Every push of her hips, my breasts press against the cold glass, making my nipples harden. 

Elphaba presses her lips to the back of my neck and shoulders. "You're beautiful." She breathes. 

I smirk and get ready to say something witty when she slams her hips into mine and a moan falls from my lips instead. 

"You're taking me so well, Glinda." She moans. 

"Don't stop, Elphie." I tell her as I move my hips with hers. 

She moves a hand down to my clit and rubs rapidly. 

"Oh, God..." I gasp as that familiar pleasurable feeling starts to creep back in. 

My walls flutter as her duck twitches inside me as her thrusts start to become sporadic.

"Glinda, I can't - I..." 

"Hold out, Elphie. I'm there too." I tell her. 

A few more thrusts, and my vision goes white. "Elphie!" 

"Fuck. Glinda!"

Then, a warm wet splash fills me. 

Her head rests against my shoulder as her body jerks along with mine. 

We drag out or pleasure as much as we can until it becomes too much. 

We don't move right away until the water turns cold. 

Then, Elphaba pulls out and turns me around, kissing me deeply. "Thank you for this." 

I run a hand down her cheek lovingly. "Always, Elphie. Now, let's actually shower before we turn into ice cubes." 

After a rushed and very cold rest of our shower, we get dressed to go to breakfast. 

We end up going to a brunch stop downtown. 

I drove this time. 

"How are you not in NASCAR?" Elphaba asks amused. 

I slap her shoulder and roll my eyes. "I wasn't that bad." 

The corner of her lips curls up in a smirk. 

I give her a look. "Stop." 

She puts her hands up in defense. "I didn't say anything." 

I point at her face, wagging my finger, narrowing my eyes. "But that did." 

Then, she gave me this puppy dog look. I almost broke. 

"No." I warn, leaning away from her as she tries to kiss me. 

"Elphaba Thropp." I say, but can't hide my slight amusement. 

She smiles and leans over the console and kisses me sweetly. 

I melt.

After a few seconds, she pulls away. "Come on, I'm feeling rather peckish." She winks, getting out of my BMW. 

She opens my door for me, and we walk in hand in hand. 

"Galinda?" 

Holy shit. Moms. 

They didn't tell me they were coming into town. 

I slowly turn around to face Larena and Idina Arduenna-Upland. 

Larena or Momsie, as I call her, brings me in for a tight hug. 

Then, Idina or Mum brings me in after. 

Elphaba stands off to the side, a little confused. 

"What are you guys doing here?" I ask, shocked. 

"Mum had a meeting in town at one of the stores, so we thought we'd make a weekend out of it. After we ate, we were going to stop by and see if you were home, but here you are." Momsie smiles.

Elphaba shifts next to me and clears her throat. Moms look to her, then back at me. 

"Is this her?" Mum asks, looking Elphaba up and down in her collared shirt, jeans, and boots. 

I grab Elphaba's hand, and we smile at each other. "Yes. Moms, meet my girlfriend, Elphaba Thropp." I say proudly. 

Momsie pushes Mum out of the way to get a better look at Elphaba. Mum rolls her eyes at her antics. 

"You're quite tall. Your eyes. They're beautiful." Momsie says, looking up at Elphaba as she pretty much towers over Momsie and myself, standing at 6'3". 

"Thank you, Ma'am. I must say, I understand now where your daughter gets her beauty from." Elphaba winks.

I'm a spitting image of Momsie from my height, blonde hair, and blue eyes. 

"Charming as well." Momsie giggles. "Please, none of that Ma'am stuff. Call me Larena." 

Elphaba nods with a kind smile.

Mum steps forward again. "I see you've mastered the art of charming my girls. That's no easy feat. Trust me. You'll do just fine in this family. You can call me Idina." 

They shake hands. 

Elphaba looks over at me and winks.

My heart flutters as I lean into her, smiling.

I'm never letting her go. 

Chapter Text

"Glinda! You and Elphaba are making headlines again. Honestly, you could do so much better." Shell says over the phone.

I laugh as I hear Elphaba yell at her brother and take the phone from him.

"Shoo, ya pest." Elphaba tells him.

Shell laughs as he walks away.

Elphaba sighs, and I swear I can hear her pinch the bridge of her nose. "Are you sure you want to come down here? I mean, really sure?"

I giggle. "Yes, Elphie. I'm sure. It's probably too late for me to turn back now. I just turned down your road."

"Hey, it's never too late. You still have time."

"You just wanna be the getaway driver. Besides, we've been together for four months. It's time I meet your family." I tell her.

"I know, but just in case I'll have the Lambo ready." She says.

"How thoughtful." I drawl.

"You'll thank me later."

I roll my eyes and chuckle. "You're something else, Elphaba Thropp."

"Thank you. I think I see you." She says I honk, and I faintly hear it on the other end.

"I see you." I say as she walks out the front door of an all black, rustic barndominium.

This place is huge. I look off to the left, and there is a barn the size of the house decorated with vintage gas station signs. Behind the house and garage are rolling green hills and what looks to be a small dirt race track.

I park my BMW behind her truck, feeling very out of place.

Elphaba walks up to my car with a huge smile on her face.

I get out and lean against the door. "You didn't tell me you owned a mansion."

"How do you think I got the Lambo?" She smirks.

"By being insanely hot and good at driving a car at high speeds?" I ask cheekily.

She grins amused. "Something like that."

"Are you just going to stand there, or are you going to kiss me?"

"My, you're awfully demanding." She teases, wrapping her arms around me.

"I haven't kissed you in three weeks since you came up and surprised me for my birthday."

Elphaba smirks, leaning down. "We better fix that then."

"We should." I wink, fisting her shirt and leaning up on my toes, kissing her deeply.

After a long moment, I pull back, biting my lip. "Much better."

Elphaba nods, leaning down for another quick peck. "Good." She grins. "Let's get your things inside, and then we'll head over to my Mom's." She says.

I pop the trunk, and she grabs my bag and leads me into the house.

The interior is completely opposite from the outside. The interior is much more modern looking with white and gray tones as well as splashes of tan throughout. It's clean, but feels lived in. Against the far wall hangs a large flat screen TV over a grey stone fireplace with floor to ceiling windows on either side, overlooking the property. The kitchen and living room are separated by a big hardwood table and iron rod chairs.

The kitchen is grey with a green granite island in the middle, giving it a splash of color against the cabinets and steel appliances.

Off the kitchen leads to a mud room with the door leading right to the garage.

From the living room, there is a hallway that leads to a bedroom and a bathroom.

Right next to the main door, there are stairs that lead up to the next floor.

Elphaba, let's me take all this in for a moment before guiding me upstairs. We get to the top and walk a sort distance to a railing that overlooks the living room downstairs. It's amazing.

We turn left and go down a short hallway to her room. She opens the door and lets me walk in first.

Her room uses more browns and greens. From the grey walls to the forest green bed sheets and heavy cherry dressers.

The wall facing the property has large French doors with large windows above, bringing in a lot of natural light. Beyond that, there is a balcony with a little table that is between two Adirondack chairs. Her bathroom is grey with green accents throughout. I might have to throw some pink in there.

The walk-in shower features a rain shower head that I can see myself using a lot as well as the tub that sits along the other wall.

I walk back into her bedroom in complete awe.

"Elphie, this place is amazing. I don't know why I haven't come here sooner." I tell her.

"It's great. After my first big payout, I had this place built. My family owns the property. Mom, Shell, and Papa live a couple of minutes down the path behind here. You probably saw the big farmhouse on your way in." Elphaba explains.

My eyes went wide as I processed the information she gave me. "First, I think it's awesome that you built place. Second, I think it's cute how you live down the road from your family." I tell her.

"Thank you. Although, just wait until Shell is over here 24/7 because he pissed our grandfather off." She grumbles.

I giggle. "I can't wait."

"I can." She says, leaning down and kissing me softly.

"Elphie, we don't have time for that."

She groans and flops back on her bed.

I climb up and straddle her. "But after we can." I wink.

She flips us over, her hands on either side of my head.

Out of the corner, my eye, I spot a new tattoo on the inside of her right forearm.

"What's this?" I ask, giving it a closer look. It's a black ink tattoo of an upside-down mangled race car with the date 6.14.23. Much different from her other pieces that are scattered over her legs and arms.

"A reminder that life can be over in a flash and to not let death stop you. That's my car. After my car flipped and barrel rolled into the baracade. The date is when it happened. It's also the day I died for two minutes." She explains, looking down at her tattoo.

Her eyes are vacant and distinct as she looks at the ink.

I reach up and cup her cheek, caressing her cheek. "Elphie." I say softly.

Her eyes meet mine. She leans into my touch with a small grin. "I'm alright." She turns her head and kisses my palm.

"No, you're not." I tell her.

She sighs and rolls over on her side. She intertwines our fingers and looks down at them as I bring them to my chest.

"I still think about that day a lot. We were in Mexico City. I was on the 56th lap when I was coming around the turn too fast, and another car clipped me and sent me flying. My life flashed before my eyes. Then, it was still and bright. I felt like I was floating. Then, I came crashing back down to earth. My soul had left my body. Literally." Her eyes start to get glassy.

I kiss her hand, and she continues. "It's affected my driving. I'm playing it too safe, but I don't want to anymore. Every time I try to push myself, I'm right back there, you know?"

I nod. "You want to take that leap, but you're afraid if you do, you'll end up in an accident again."

"Yes. Exactly." She says, looking relieved.

"I know you see a therapist, but is it possible you could have PTSD?" I ask.

Elphaba shrugs. "I haven't officially been diagnosed, but I'm sure it's possible."

I give her hand a squeeze. "I know it's not easy to talk about, but if you ever want to. I'm always here for you."

She nods. "I know, baby. Thank you. Just talking to you now makes me feel a little lighter."

I lean forward and kiss her forehead. "Good. That's what girlfriends are for. We're here to help."

Elphaba chuckles as she plays with my fingers. "Good to know."

"Shouldn't we get over to your Mom's house before they send Shell to come get us?" I ask.

Elphaba groans, turning her face into the sheets. "The timing of that sucked. You know that? I thought we were having a moment."

"I know, but you love me."

Both of us stiffen as we realize what I had just said.

Elphaba, without missing a beat, looks up, grinning. "You're right. I do love you."

My heart flutters in my chest. "I love you too." I tell her.

"Yeah?" She asks, eyes shining brightly.

"Mhm." I smile, leaning over to kiss her with everything I have.

Our bubble is popped shortly after.

"Elphaba!" Comes from downstairs.

We groan, and I drop my head to her chest.

"Looks like they came to us." She says.

I giggle and peck her lips before getting off the bed. I hold my hands out, and she takes them, letting me pull her up. With one last sound kiss, we head downstairs.

We reach the bottom, and the tall kid who looks almost exactly like Elphaba  only with a buzz cut. Who I assume is Shell is standing by the door, arms crossed, and tapping his foot.

"Took you long enough." Elphaba playfully swings at him, but he ducks. "Nessa, Boq, and Ellie just got to the house. We're waiting, and Mom is jumping at the bit to meet your girlfriend." Shell informs.

"We'll be there is a second. Meet Glinda first." Elphaba says.

"Fae, I know Glinda. We talked on the phone, remember earlier?" He sticks out his hand. "It's nice to put a face to the name. I'm Shell. Fae's favorite sibling. I gotta ask, though, what the hell you see in my sister?"

Elphaba gives him a sharp glare as I shake his hand. "You're on thin ice boy." She tells him.

I laugh. "It's nice to meet you, Shell." I tell him.

On the way out the door, Elphaba grabs the keys to the Lambo.

"What do you think you're doing?" I ask.

She raises an eyebrow. "The getaway plan, remember?"

I shake my head and roll my eyes. "Nope. You won't be needing those. Besides, you just want an excuse to drive it."

Elphaba grumbles and puts the keys back.

Shell laughs. "She clocked you."

Elphaba gives him a look that could kill.

"Run."

Shell takes off like a shot out the door, and Elphaba follows after.

I shut the door behind me and follow them down the path, laughing at them.

A couple minutes later, I walk up to a beautiful light grey farm house with a wrap around porch and Elphaba and Shell getting scolded by their mother.

I try, and I hide my amusement. A woman about my age with beautiful long curly hair comes over to me in a wheelchair.

"Hi, I'm Nessarose, but you can call me Nessa. I'm Elphaba's younger sister. You must be Glinda." She says.

"Hi. Nice to meet you." I smile.

Then, a little girl no older than two with red hair squeals as a short man with the same colored hair chases after her.

"Ellie, no." He says as she runs into my legs.

I pick her up as the man apologizes. I wave him off.

"She's fine. She's pretty cute, too." I wink tickling her belly, making her laugh.

"This is my husband, Boq." Nessa says, and Boq nods a hello.

"I'm Glinda."

Nessa nods to the little girl in my arms. "That little terror is our daughter, Ellie."

"Linda!" Ellie says.

The three of us laugh as she tries to say my name.

To my right Elphaba, Shell, and their Mom come walking over.

"Baba!" Ellie says, reaching out for Elphaba.

"Hi, goober." Elphaba says, stealing Ellie from me.

Their mother, who is a spitting image of Nessa, pulls me in for a hug.

I'm taken by surprise as I hug her back. When she pulls away, she holds me at arms length.

"Fabala, she's beautiful." She beams, and I blush.

"Thank you, Ms. Thropp." I smile.

"Melena, please. I'm so glad you could make the trip down." She says, then shoots a look to Elphaba and Shell. "I'm sorry those two left you on your walk over. I swear I raised them better than that."

I laugh. "They're fine."

"What's all the ruckus out here for?" An older gentleman asks with a booming voice, walking down the steps of the porch.

"You're granddaughter, finally brought her girlfriend home." Melena says.

I catch Elphaba rolling her eyes and try not to laugh.

The man walks up to me. "Ms. Glinda?" He asks.

I nod. "Yes, sir."

"You're just as beautiful as Melena said. I'm Peerless, Elphaba's grandfather. You can call me Papa like the rest of the hooligans." He says.

I chuckle as there is a collective, "Hey!" From his grandchildren.

"I will. Elphie talks very highly of you. She respects you very much." I tell him.

He smiles, resting a calloused hand from years of working on cars, gently on my shoulder. "She talks the same way about you, Ms. Glinda."

I blush. "And I respect her just the same. I can't promise I'll never break her heart, but if I ever do, I promise to fight to get her back."

He nods. "That's all I can ask for in someone who chooses to love my grandchildren."

My heart skips a beat.

Melena claps her hands together. "Let's eat before the food gets cold. We can talk more over dinner."

After a dinner filled with embarrassing stories of Elphaba and getting to know her family, it's safe to say I love them too. I love seeing how close they all are to each other as they all have been through a lot together.

Now, I lay in bed as Elphaba comes out of the bathroom only in her boxers.

She climbs up the bed between my legs and starts kissing my neck as I try and tell her how much I loved dinner.

"Elphie, I'm trying to talk to you."

"This is better." She mumbles against my jaw.

I roll my eyes. "Elphaba Thropp, I'm serious."

"I am too."

"You're like a horny teenager." I tell her, pushing her off me.

She flops over on her back dramatically, tucking her arm behind her head.

I turn over and straddle her. Her hand rested on my thigh. "Talking about my family is a boner killer, you know that?"

I chuckle, shaking my head. "You sound like a seventy year old man who can never have an erection."

Elphaba rolls her eyes. "Whatever. You may continue."

"I love your family. I love how close you all are to each other. I love how you all harass and embarrass each other, but you can tell it's out of love. Thank you for letting me meet them and leaving the Lambo here." I tell her.

Her eyes start to glisten with tears. "Baby..."

"It's true, Elphie, as I much as I love them, I love you too." I tell her.

She reaches up and brings me down for an emotional kiss. "I love you too." She tells me.

I smile on her lips.

"Does this mean we can have sex now?" She asks.

I laugh. "Yes, Elphie."

She flips us over, pinning me underneath her. "Good because I plan on spending the whole night showing you how much I love you."

Chapter Text

Viva Mexico 250. Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez, Mexico City, Mexico

The place that haunts Elphaba the most.

She asked me to come with her. I moved hell and earth to be here for her. Even if it meant working on Christmas and taking other people's shifts.

On the car ride to the raceway for practice and qualifying, her knee bounces nervously.

I rest my hand on her knee, rubbing soothing circles across it. "Breathe, Elphie."

"I don't think I've breathed since the plane landed yesterday. I haven't been on the track since my accident." She says.

Deacon "Doc" Dillamond, crew chief, NASCAR legend and friend of Elphaba's, sits across from us.

He runs a hand through his silver hair and adjusts his glasses. "I understand if you're not ready for this. If you want, you can sit this out. I don't need you to have an anxiety attack in the middle of the race. Your mental health and your safety are more important than this race."

Elphaba shakes her head. "No. I need to do this. I can't let this track be my downfall. I need to reclaim myself."

Dillamond leans back in his seat with a satisfied grin, knowing how headstrong Elphaba can be. "You're going to do it, kid. I know you are."

Elphaba takes a deep breath as we pull up to the gates of the raceway. The driver shows his credentials and we're leg through.

"I almost forgot." Dillamond says, reaching into his pocket. He pulls out a pass with my name and picture on it. "You're going to need this while we're down in the pit." He says, handing the pass to me.

I slip the pass over my head. "Thank you."

He nods with a small grin.

The driver takes us down to the pit, and we get out.

This place is crazy. Teams are scattered all over, looking over cars and making observations of the track.

The humming sound of tools and the smell of fuel fill the air as Elphaba walks up the ramp of the semi truck that serves as storage, a garage and locker room.

"I'm worried about her." I tell Dillamond.

He sighs, crossing his arms. "Me too. I'm hoping that once she walks the track, she'll be able to breathe a little easier."

"She usually does that alone?"

"No. I usually go with her to map out stuff, but I have a feeling she's going to want to do this with someone else." He says.

"Who?"

He gives me a pointed look.

"Oh." Good thing I wore my sneakers.

He smirks and walks away as Elphaba comes out of the truck in her sponsored polo and jeans, yellow M&M ball cap on her head.

"Hey." I smile as she walks up to me.

She shoves her hands in her pockets. "You want to walk the track with me?"

"Sure."

I follow her down the pit road, and she takes a little notebook and pen out of her back pocket, flipping to a blank page.

We enter the track, and Elphaba starts jotting stuff down.

She's quiet the whole time. That is until we get to the first turn. She stops in her tracks.

"This is where it happened. You can't even tell there was a car crash here." She says, looking at the baracade from where we stand at the bottom of the track.

"Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" I ask, standing next to her.

She nods and swallows. "A good thing. People still remember it. I still do, obviously. I'm glad they replaced everything because that crash literally defined me. People couldn't mention my name without the crash coming up. This means a fresh start, and I'm hoping that at race time, I can have a fresh start and erase the pass."

I lean into her side, wrapping my hand around her bicep. "I'm proud of you."

She smiles down at me. "Thank you." She says and kisses me quickly before resuming our walk around the track.

By the time we get back to the pit, Elphaba looks lighter like she had the weight of the world lifted off her shoulders.

As Elphaba goes in to change into her fire suit, Dillamond comes over.

"She looks more relaxed. I'm guessing the walk went well?"

"Yeah. She's ready to erase the past and start new." I tell him.

After practice and qualifying, something changed within Elphaba. She's first seed in the pack.

I watch as they do some final tune ups and check over the car.

Elphaba grabs her helmet and comes over. "Hey, baby." She says.

"Hi. Come over for a good luck kiss?" I tease.

"Maybe." She winks. "You look cute in those earmuffs."

I giggle, placing my hands on her chest. "Thank you. Now go be speed."

She nods, grinning. "I am speed." She says.

"Good. I love you." I tell her.

"I love you too." She tells me, leaning down for a soft kiss.

Dillamond calls her name, and with one more kiss, she pulls up her balaclava and walks over to the car. She says a little prayer and crosses herself before climbing in.

Dillamond says something to her and taps her helmet before buckling in neck brace and pulling the net over the window. He bangs his fist on the top of the car before stepping away.

The drivers make their way onto the track. Dillamond and I make our way up to the pit box.

He sits in the front with the car chief, Max Thurston. Behind them sits Oscar Diggs, the owner of the team, and a representative from M&M. I sit with Max's wife, Doreen.

"You ready for this?" Doreen asks.

"Absolutely." I say.

The drivers get their cars in formation, and they are led by a pace car to warm up.

After warm-up, the green flag drops, and they take off like a shot down the track.

Elphaba takes off at the head of the pack, zipping around the first corner on the inside.

"Keep that up, kid. You stay like that for the next 99 laps. You might win this thing." Dillamond says with a smirk.

I can just imagine Elphaba's smirk when she hears that.

For a majority of the race, Elphaba stays in the top five. You would never know that she was fearful of crashing again and was driving cautiously. She's playing defensively and keeping those gaps closed as well as blocking like her life depends on it.

Two hours later, they're in the last five laps.

"Glinda!" Dillamond yells from up front.

I shoot up from my seat and go up to him.

"She wants to talk to you." He says. He grabs a headset and holds them

I quickly swap the earmuffs for the headset.

I adjust the mic in front of my mouth, pressing the earphones closer to my ears. "Elphie?"

"You're the only voice I want to hear these last few laps." She says. I can hear the emotion in her voice.

I watch her on the monitor in front of me, pull ahead a few feet in front of number 87, claiming the lead.

"You can do this, Elphie. Two laps, that's all you need. Reclaim that fire we all know is inside you. 65 is on your right and gaining." I tell her.

I hear her shift gears and blows past them, leaving a large gap between her and everyone else.

"You know you're catching on to this racing thing pretty quick. I think you could be my next crew chief."

"I heard that." Dillamond intercepts, chuckling.

"Sorry, Doc." She chuckles.

Elphaba passes the start line, and they drop the white flag, indicating the last lap. "Holy shit. I think I'm gonna do it." She says in mild disbelief.

"You got this kid. It's your race now. Keep it steady. Don't worry about anyone else." Dillamond tells her calmly.

"Take back what is yours, baby. You can do this. You are speed."

She exhales. "I am speed." She says.

She comes within a quarter mile of the finish line, and they wave the checkered flag.

Dillamond and I both are on our feet watching as Elphaba closes in on the finish line.

"It's mine!" Elphaba declares as she crosses the finish line.

Everyone on the crew yells in victory.

"Let's fucking go!" Elphaba cheers.

"You did it, kid. You fucking did it." Dillamond says.

"It's yours, Elphie. It's yours." I smile.

"Thank you." Elphaba says softly as she slows the car down.

I wipe the tears from my eyes. "This was all you."

She pulls her car into the grassy area near the pit and does a couple of donuts before stopping and climbing out.

She gets on top of the car and throws her hands up in victory as the thousands of fans cheer her on.

She pulls her helmet and balaclava off, and she falls to her knees, the cameras zooming in on her tear streaked face.

She climbs down from the car and runs a hand over her face before throwing her fist up in celebration.

She climbs back in the car and rides down Victory Lane.

She drives right up to where she'll get her trophy and climbs out, switching out her helmet for a hat.

She shakes hands with Oscar Diggs, then hugs Dillamond, telling him thank you.

Without warning, she comes over to me and sweeps me up in her arms.

"Thank you for being here. I couldn't have done this without you. I love you." Her voice thick with emotion.

"I love you too, Elphie. This was all you." I tell her.

I kiss her cheek before she sets me down.

She turns around and goes over to accept her trophy as they announce her as the winner of Viva Mexico 250.

I stand back, smiling big as she is handed a bottle of champagne and climbs on the roof of her car, spraying it over her team.

When the champagne runs out, she is swarmed by cameras and interviewers.

She handles herself with such pride as she answers what winning this race meant for her and what it took to get here.

My heart swells with pride.

A short raven haired woman comes over to Elphaba.

"Elphaba Thropp, the woman of the night! We know how it felt for you to win this race. What was it like those last few laps for you? What was going on between you and your pit crew, if anything?" The woman asks.

Elphaba nods and puts her hands on her hips. "I didn't think it was real. Doc kept telling me I was leading the pack. I was freaking out there for a moment, and I asked for someone to hop on the line." She smirks, eyeing me in the corner. "Once they came on, I knew it was real, and that voice is the last one I heard crossing the finish line. Now, here I am."

The woman thanks Elphaba for her time and turns back to her camera.

Elphaba finishes her interviews, and we head back to the pit box.

"I love how people keep fishing for who the mystery woman is that's with me." Elphaba winks.

I laugh. "It is fun to watch them try and figure out who I am to you. They know, but we, rather, you haven't confirmed anything."

We've been plastered all over gossip media outlets as they try to figure out who I am to Elphaba, but we are keeping our relationship quiet for now as we want to keep it to us for now.

"I don't like to share." Elphaba winks as we walk up the ramp into the back of the truck.

I squeeze her hand. "Me either."

She leans down and kisses me slow and deep.

My phone blows up, and I bite my lip while Elphaba groans.

"I swear if that's Shell." She says.

I pull my phone out, and it's a FaceTime request from Melena.

I handed the phone to her. "Close, but no. I think this is for you."

Elphaba swipes to answer. Tears start falling down her face once she sees her mom. "Mama, I did it."

Melena smiles proudly as she wipes her own tears. "I'm so proud of you, baby girl. We all are." She says, panning the phone so Elphaba can see her whole family.

They talk and laugh through tears for a good twenty minutes before Elphaba hands the phone back to me.

"She wants to talk to you." Elphaba kisses me on the head and goes to get changed.

"Thank you for being there with her. She loves you something fierce. I think you were the key to her redemption. I think I can confidently say that for all of us, you have cemented your spot in this family." Melena tells me.

My eyes get misty.

"You're stuck with me now, Glinny!" Shell says off camera, making me laugh.

Melena rolls her eyes. "I tried. I really tried."

"I love it." I tell her.

"You don't have to flatter me, child." Melena grins.

"I'm just telling the truth."

"I think you need to get your head checked. There is something wrong."

I laugh, shaking my head. "Nah. Everything is perfect."

Chapter Text

The break room door flies open, and I almost drop my phone as I try to catch some of Shell's soccer match.

"Whoops. Are you watching something x-rated from your girlfriend?" Pfannee asks, sitting down next to me dramatically.

He peeks at my phone and scuffs. "You really are a lesbian. Watching soccer on your lunch break? Where's Megan Rapinoe?" 

I give him a look as I stab my fork into my salad. "Shut up. Shell is playing. His team is trying to go to nationals." 

Pfannee smirks.

"What?" 

He shrugs, taking out his lunch. "Nothing. I just think it's cute how you're supporting her family, is all." 

"They're chaotic and have through a lot that I can't even begin to understand, but they are so damn loveable." I tell him with a wide grin. 

Pfannee looks at me satisfied as he unwrapped his sandwich. "Just make sure I'm in the wedding party when the time comes." 

I laugh. "I'll make sure of it." 

We turn to the match, eating in silence except for when Shell scores. 

We get interrupted when our pagers go off. 

We abandon everything and head to the ER. 

There was a school bus crash near Potomac River, and some of the kids with more severe injuries were sent here. 

This is going to be a long few hours. 

Five hours of scared kids, screaming in pain and crying for their parents because they don't know what's going on. Five hours of hysterical parents bursting in wanting to know where their children are. 

Two children flat lining. One death. One family losing their whole world. 

These kids were coming back from a summer trip. They were supposed to be having fun. Now, a family has lost their child, and these kids have lost a friend. 

Sometimes, I hate this job. 

I find the on-call room and lock the door. 

I collapse on the couch and scream into a pillow. 

I curl up on my side and hug the pillow to my chest, sobbing. 

My phone goes off, and I groan, taking it out of my pocket.

It's a video from Shell. I hit play.

"Glinny!" He says the phone was too close to his face. 

He's sweaty, his jersey clinging to his long and lean frame, covered in grass stains. 

He slings his arm over Elphaba, who looks disgusted. "Help me." She says, looking right at the camera. 

"You love me, Fae." Shell winks at his sister before turning back to the camera. "Anyway, not sure how much of the match you caught, but we won! We qualified for nationals! I know you're really busy, but I hope you can make the next match in a couple of weeks." He pans the camera over to Elphaba. 

"Give this one some company too. She's nicer when you're around, less broody too." He says and dodges the swipe from Elphaba. 

He laughs as he holds her off. "Bye, Glinny, we love you!" 

The video ends with a shot of Elphaba reaching for his phone.

I laugh through the whole thing. It's just what I needed. 

I dry my tears and text Shell quickly, congratulating him before facing the music. 

The thing about losing a patient is that the world doesn't stop for you. You have to keep going no matter how bad you just want to disappear. So I plaster on the best smile I can and continue on.

Three more hours. 

As I walk down the hall back to the nurses' station, Pfannee comes out of the bathroom, looking as rough as I do. 

"Drinks after work. Mandatory." He says.

I nod in response. 

Work returns to normal. The rest of the shift is just doing rounds and answering when someone calls for us. I'm thankful for that. 

After work, Pfannee and I clock out and change before heading to the bar. 

Fiyero meets us out as well as he didn't have to work today. 

He gives me a tight hug as soon as he sees us. 

"How are you holding up?" He asks.

I shrug. "I'm not sure. I've lost patients before, but not like what happened today. I can't get the screams out of my head." 

Fiyero nods understandingly. His second year at the hospital, he lost a six-year-old child who overdosed on their parents' meds, thinking they were candy. The parents blamed him for not doing enough even though all options were exhausted. 

"Have you talked to Elphaba?" He asks as Pfannee comes back to the table with three glasses of wine. 

I shake my head. "No. I know as soon as I do, I'm going to lose it." 

"Babe, that's not healthy to keep it bottled up. Nor should you keep this from her." Pfannee says.

"She's dealt with enough. She doesn't need this on top of all that." I say, taking a large drink of wine. 

"What do you mean?" Fiyero asks. 

I go on to tell how her father left when he found out Melena was pregnant with Shell because he didn't want another "defective" child. He was also quite abusive towards Melena verbally and physically as he blamed her for how Elphaba and Nessa turned out. 

"Damn. I had no idea." Yero says. 

"I didn't either. Turns out he remarried to a woman Kansas, has five kids, and is a pastor now. He's reached out to them a few times, sighting that he has been reborn and he wants to make amends, but they don't want anything to do with him. Which, I don't blame them. You that Nessa and Elphaba changed their last name to Thropp when they were old enough because they didn't want anything of his?" 

The boys look at me, shocked. "Damn." Pfannee says. "But Elphaba is not made out of glass. She's a strong woman. You should really talk to her." 

"Maybe I'm not ready to talk about it yet." I tell him, finishing my wine. 

"Glinda..." Pfannee says carefully. 

"No. You didn't see the life drain from that child's eyes. You didn't hear them gasp for air. Your patient came back! You don't understand what I went through!" I grab my keys and my purse. I storm out of the bar and to my car. 

I stop off at the liquor store and grab a bottle of whatever will get me drunk the fastest and head home. 

As soon as I get inside my apartment, I open the bottle and take a few gulps, the alcohol burning my throat.

A light switches on, and Elphaba stands from the chair. I curse myself for giving her a key.

"Why are you here?" I ask from the floor. 

She walks over, taking her hands out of her hoodie pocket. "Fiyero called me. He told me what happened. I got here as soon as I could." 

She sits down on the floor and crosses her legs under her. "He also told me that you didn't want to tell me what happened? Why?" 

I take another swig from the bottle before setting it aside. "You have enough to deal with, and you've already dealt with a lot in your life. I know you're still riding the high from Mexico, and I didn't want to burden you with my shit." 

She nods slowly and scoots closer. "Baby, I'm not some porcelain doll that you need to protect. I'm not going to lie, I'm a little hurt you think that way. I don't want you to hide things from me. You can come to me with anything that is borthing you. I love you, and I want to be here for you, but it feels like you don't want to let me in." 

"Maybe because you wouldn't understand what I've had to go through today." I say, picking the bottle back up, missing the look of hurt on her face. 

She sighs and stands up, brushing off her jeans. "You're right, I don't know what you went through today, but I just want to be here for you." 

I shake my head. "I don't want to let you in." 

She nods, grabbing her bag next to the couch. She sniffles and walks over and stands at my side, looking at the door. "Fine. I'll leave. I hope you will let someone in, Galinda. Even if it's not me." 

With that, she leaves my apartment, the door clicking shut behind her. It only makes everything worse. 

At some point, I blackout drunk.

I wake up the next morning with a pounding headache and the urge to spill my guts.

I scramble off the floor and head for the toilet. 

After spilling my guts and swearing to never drink again, I rinse my mouth out in the sink, catching a glimpse of myself in the mirror. Makeup smudged, my hair a mess, bags under my eyes, and tear stained cheeks. 

I sigh, leaning against the counter. Everything comes flooding back. The lost life of that eight-year-old girl as I tried to do everything in my power to save her.

I could still hear her screams when she came in and before she coded the first time. She was in such bad shape that I couldn't even describe her condition without feeling sick. 

Then, I remember the bar and the fight with Elphaba. 

Elphaba. Fuck. 

I leave the bathroom and find my phone on the floor. I go to turn it on, and it's dead. 

I find a charger and plug it in. 

I turn it on, and it blows up with missed calls and texts from moms, Pfannee, and Fiyero. 

A voicemail pops up from just seconds ago. Elphaba.

I hit play. 

"Hey, it's me. I know you don't want to talk, but I'm just checking in because I know you're struggling, and I want to make sure you're somewhat okay. I know we left things on uncomfortable terms last night, and I don't know where you want to go from here, but if you want to talk, I'm staying with Fiyero. No pressure, though. Alright, bye, Glinda." 

I messed up. I thought I'd be saving her the hurt by not letting her in. Turns out I did more harm than good. 

I change quickly and head to Fiyero's house. 

On the way, I stopped at Baked & Wired for coffee and donuts as a peace offering. 

As I pull in the driveway, I see Elphaba's truck, and I breathe a sigh of relief. She's still here. 

My heart is going a mile a minute as I walk up the front steps.

I knock, and Anthony answers the door.

"Hey." He says with a kind smile. "They're out on the back deck." 

He lets me in and leads me out back. 

Anthony gives me a reassuring nod as I step over the threshold.

Fiyero and Elphaba are sitting at the table talking about something when I walk over.

Elphaba looks up first. "Glinda. Hi. I didn't think you got my message." She says.

Fiyero looks between the two of us and clears his throat before standing. "I'll leave you two alone, but I'm taking these." He says, stealing the box of donuts from me. 

I sit across from Elphaba and slide a coffee over to her, and she accepts it. I trace my finger around the lid as I try to figure out what to say. 

"You're right. I should not keep things from you. I know you can handle it. I'm the one who can't handle letting the people I love imagine some of the horrors that come with my job. I thought I was protecting you from that, but I was actually hurting you. I do trust you, Elphaba, and I love you, but I don't want you to think differently of me." I explain.

Elphaba takes a slow sip of her coffee. "It hurt Glinda. Seeing you like that last night. I felt helpless because you wouldn't let me in to help you. I know you see a lot of horrible things, but I don't want you to hide them from me. I survived death, so I'm sure you can talk to me about it." She gets up from her chair and kneels next to me, taking my hand. 

"If you're afraid that talking to me about things that happen at work will make me run away, you're wrong. I know it's hard to talk about, but I want you to feel safe and that you can talk to me about things. Even if they are hard or I might not understand. Life is too short to keep things bottled up. I know you're not ready to talk about what happened just yet, but I will be right here when you do." 

I take one look into those green eyes that are so raw and open. I lose it, collapsing into her arms. 

"I'm sorry. I'm so sorry, Elphie. I won't keep things from you. I promise. Just don't leave me." I beg through sobs.

I had an ex who left when she realized she couldn't take what I would tell her, so I kept things bottled up inside. My friends don't even know that's why my ex left.

She wraps me up tight in her strong arms. She picks me up, setting me on her lap. She presses her lips to my head and strokes my hair. 

"I got you, baby. I'm right here." She says soothingly. 

I'm safe when I'm with her. 

Then, it all spills out. I tell her about my ex. I told her about the little girl who died in my arms yesterday as I tried to help her. I tell her about the first patient I ever lost. I told her about the first time I saved a child's life. I tell her everything. Good and bad.

She never wavers. She stays, holding me tight, making me feel more loved than I ever have. 

Chapter Text

"Shit, Glinda." Elphaba moans as I trail hot kisses down her torso.

I smirk against her skin as she squirms underneath me.

I drag my tongue around the base of her cock before parting her lips that hide underneath.

I find her clit and lap at it with a broad tongue. She bucks into my face, and I laugh.

"Stop that." She says.

"Okay." I say with a wicked grin, pulling my mouth off her.

"Glinda." She groans.

I giggle and lean back in.

I edge her entrance and tease her before I push my tongue in and lap at her walls for a hot minute.

Soon I replace my tongue with my fingers, pumping into her steadily while I lick and suck her clit.

Elphaba's phone rings on the nightstand. She groans and grabs the pillow next to her, and pulls it over her face, screaming into it.

"It's like the universe just doesn't want me to get laid." She mumbles into the pillow.

I laugh while she blindly reaches for her phone. "Hello?" She answers slightly breathless.

She bites back a moan as I add another finger. I try to pull my head away, but she pushes me back down.

"Mm, yeah, we can do that... alright... thirty minutes? We'll be ready." Elphaba ends the call and throws her phone on the nightstand.

I look up from between her legs.

"We're on babysitting duty tonight." She says.

I smirk. "Is that so?" I pull my fingers out and climb up to straddle her.

I line her member up with my entrance and sink down.

"Better make this quick, Thropp." I wink.

Elphaba meets me downstairs after getting dressed from our shower that was less than quick.

She comes up behind me as I get a drink from the fridge and nips at my neck.

I spin around, pushing her back. "Down, girl." I tease before kissing her lips.

The front door opens, and Nessa, Boq, and Ellie come in.

Boq looks at us concerned. "We're not interrupting, are we?"

"Nope. Where's that little munchkin?" I ask as Ellie peeks out from behind Nessa's chair.

"You mean this little wiggle worm?" Nessa asks, turning her chair so she can pick her daughter up.

She sets Ellie on her lap and turns back to us. "You sure you guys are okay taking her for the night?"

I wave her off. "Of course. We were just going to stay in for the night, anyway. We had nothing planned."

"Other than fuck like rabbits." Elphaba mumbles under her breath. I elbow her in the ribs, hard.

Nessa smirks. "Alright. Well, there are not many instructions other than her bedtime is 7:30. She'll need a bath. Fabala has stuff for her in the bathroom down here. She's not allergic to anything. She'll eat just about anything, too. Her favorite show is Cocomelon. We'll be back around nine tomorrow morning."

Boq hands me Ellie's bag of supplies.

"Be good for Baba and Linda, baby." Nessa says, kissing her on the head.

"We love you." Boq tells her.

Ellie babbles, something in response I can't quite make out before hoping off Nessa's lap and coming over to me with her arms raised.

"Up." She says.

I chuckle and pick her up.

"I see who her favorite is." Nessa winks.

"Just don't tell Elphie." I wink at my pouting girlfriend.

"You're lucky you're cute." She says and kisses my head.

"Well, we better get going if we're going to make it on time. Have fun, you three." Boq says.

"We will. I promise she's in good hands. Have fun at the wedding." I tell them.

"We will. Maybe I'll even get the Mrs. On the dance floor." Boq says as he opens the front door.

"Only after a few drinks." Nessa says as they leave.

They get in their car, and we wave as they drive off.

"Mommy, Daddy, go bye bye." Ellie says, looking at me.

"Yes, they did. Now you're going to have so much fun with me and Auntie Baba." I tell her as we walk into the living room while Elphaba shuts the door.

I sit down on the couch with Ellie, and she looks to Elphaba. "We play?" She asks.

"What do you want to play? I think I have some of your toys in the closet." Elphaba says.

Ellie shakes her head. "Go fast!" She says, making the sound of a car engine.

"You wanna go fast?" Elphaba asks. Ellie nods excitedly. "Alright, Munchkin." Elphaba picks her up and puts her on her shoulders. "Hold on tight!"

Elphaba takes off around the house with Ellie. Elphaba announces every move she makes, and Ellie squeals at every turn.

"We gonna crash!" Ellie laughs as Elphaba picks her up and pulls her close, falling into the couch.

"We crashed!" Elphaba announces, tickling Ellie.

"Again! Again!" Ellie says, bouncing on Elphaba's stomach.

She laughs and picks her up. "Okay. We'll go again."

Because Elphaba can't say no to her neice, they run around five more times.

They crash on the couch a final time, Elphaba laying her head in my lap, Ellie sitting on top of her legs.

"Tired speedy?" I ask, combing my fingers through her braids.

"She doesn't have an off switch." She says.

Ellie gets off the couch and disappears down the hall.

Elphaba groans and goes to get up, but I stop her. "I got this." I get out from under her and walk down the hall, finding Ellie in the spare room, pulling a bin of toys and coloring books behind her.

"Whatcha doing?" I ask.

"Linda, color wit me?" She asks.

"Sure! Want me to take the bin? It looks heavy."

Ellie shakes her head. "I got it, Linda." She says.

I bite back my laugh. "Okay, Munchkin."

With all the strength in her little body, she eventually gets the bin out in the living room.

She sits on the floor and digs through the bin, getting out a couple of her coloring books and her crayons.

I sit down next to her, and she hands me her coloring book of Disney Princesses.

"You color Seeping Booty." She says, handing me a pink crayon.

"Yes, ma'am." I salute.

She opens another book with racecars and picks up a green crayon. "Baba's car." She says, pointing to the car on the page.

"You're right, Munchkin. It does look like my car, huh?" Elphaba asks from the couch.

"Yeah." Ellie says as she scribbles the green crayon across the page.

Elphaba slides off the couch and sits behind me, her long legs stretching out on either side. She wraps her arms around me, and I lean back into her. She presses a soft kiss to my neck as I color in Aroura's gown.

"I think the kid is on to something. You're literally coloring yourself." Elphaba says, looking down at the coloring book in my lap.

I chuckle. "You saying I'm pretty like Sleeping Beauty?"

"I am." She grins. "Isn't that right, Ellie? Linda is pretty like Sleeping Beauty?"

"Yeah, Linda. You are weally pretty!" Ellie says.

"Thank you, Munchkin." I tell her.

"You welcome." Ellie says before going back to coloring, her tongue poking out as she concentrates.

I sigh happily, forgetting the coloring book for a moment.

I want this. Someday. Coloring on the floor with my child after a long day at work, Elphaba, next to me as we watch the life we created together. It's perfect.

Softly, "Hey, where'd you go?" Elphaba asks.

I smile, leaning my head back to kiss her chin. "Nowhere far. I'm just thinking."

The corner of her mouth curls up. She knows exactly what I was thinking.

"Mmkay. I was going to get up and see what we have to make dinner. Any suggestions?" She asks, adjusting her clear frame glasses.

"Mac & Cheese!" Ellie suggests, well, more like demands.

Elphaba chuckles, nodding. "Okay. How about we throw in some peas and ham, too? I don't think your Mommy will be happy with me if you don't have somewhat of a balanced dinner."

Ellie looks at Elphaba and tilts her head as she thinks. She narrows her eyes and then shrugs. "Otay."

Elphaba smirks and kisses my cheek before getting up. "Cool. I'm going to go get started."

"Do you need help?"

She waves me off. "I got it. You just keep coloring with the little diva." She winks before going to the kitchen.

While Elphaba starts on dinner, Ellie and I color for a little bit before she gets bored and gets her toy cars out.

"We race?" Ellie asks.

"Let's race, Munchkin." I smile, picking out a red vintage '64 Mustang.

She picks out a green Lamborghini. We line our cars up before Ellie yells, "Go!"

We push our cars, and they go under the table, my car crashing right into Elphaba's foot.

"Ow." Elphaba says dramatically.

I giggle. "Sorry, Elphie."

She gives a look that says, "Yeah, right."

"I love you." I tell her.

Her expression melts. "I love you too, just no more crashing toy cars into me?"

"I'll try my best." I wink as she rolls our cars back over.

Half an hour later, dinner is ready, and Ellie helps me set the table. More so, she carries her plate, cup, and kid safe utensils to the tables, setting it next to my spot.

Elphaba brings the Mac & Cheese over from the counter, where she set it to cool.

I fill our cups with water, and we sit down.

Elphaba dishes out the cheesey goodness mixed with peas and ham.

Ellie let's hers cool down a little more before taking her first bite.

"How is it, Munchkin?" Elphaba asks.

"Weally good, Baba." She says with her mouthful.

Elphaba smiles, her hand finding mine on the table. I look over and smile at her, squeezing her hand.

I think after we put Ellie to bed, Elphaba and I are going to have a little talk about how we're feeling.

After a dinner with Ellie spilling some of it down the front of her.

Elphaba goes to give her a bath while I clean up dinner.

The music I was playing cuts out as my phone rang. FaceTime request from moms. I prop my phone up near the sink and swipe to answer.

"Hello, Darling." Momsie greets.

"Hey, Duckie." Mum says from somewhere in the background.

"Hi." I smile.

"What are you up to?" Momsie asks.

"We just got done with dinner. We're watching Elphie's neice while her sister and brother-in-law are at a wedding."

"That's nice. Where is Elphaba?"

I turn the sink off, drying the last dish. "She's down the hall giving Ellie a bath. Dinner got a little messy." I say with a grin.

"Idina, get over here. I think our daughter has something to tell us." Momsie says, pulling Mum down next to her unceremoniously.

I laugh.

"What is it, Duckie?" Mum asks.

I put the dish in the cabinet and hung the towel to dry.

I smile at the ceiling before looking at them. "Ugh... she's so good with Ellie, and their relationship is so cute, and I may or may not have let myself day dream about a future with her and children of our own."

Momsie squeals, and Mum smiles smuggly.

"I knew it! When will we be expecting grandchildren?" Momsie asks.

My face flushes and my heart flutters. I hold up a hand. "Hold on there, woman. We haven't really talked about the whole kids thing yet. I don't even know if she wants them. Also, I would like to be living in the same house together and not five hours away from each other." I explain.

"That sounds logical. I knew we did something right when we raised you." Mum winks.

"Just don't make us wait too long for grand babies. I don't want to be an old grandmother." Momsie says, pointing her finger at me through the phone.

I chuckle. "I'll see what I can do."

Momise nods, satisfied. "Good. Now, onto more pressing matters. Will you and Elphaba be attending our fall gala for the foundation?"

The foundation they started to help aid in ending childhood cancer.

I shrug, mentally going over my schedule and Elphaba's in my head. "We should be able to, but I'll talk to Elphie about it tonight and see what she thinks."

"Good. I would hate for the two of you to miss it." Momsie says.

"No pressure." Mum winks.

I groan. Meaning it's not an option. Attendance is mandatory.

"We'll make it work." I tell them.

They both smirk, proud of themselves.

"We knew you would. Thank you, darling. We'll let you get back to cleaning up. We love you!" Momsie says.

"I love you too." I smile before we hang up.

I sigh and head into the living room, lying down on the couch.

"Hey." Elphaba appears, a few braids free from the messy bun on top of her head, glasses splattered with water and the front of her hoodie soaked.

"Hi." I open my arms, inviting her to join me. "Where's the Munchkin?"

Elphaba strips off her hoodie, leaving just her t-shirt underneath. "Asleep. She crashed after her bath." She says, climbing up between my legs, laying her head on my chest with a sigh.

"You did tire her out with all that running around you did with her." I say, playing with her loose braids.

"I think she tried me out. Is it bad that I would do it over and over again in a heartbeat?"

I wrap an arm around her back, kissing her head. "No. I would do it, too. Especially with you." I tell her.

"So, does this mean we're having the 'do you want kids talk'?" Elphaba asks, looking up at me.

I nod, smiling. "I think so. I mean, we've only been together what? Seven months. I do want kids someday. I would just like to be living under the same roof as the other person, first."

"I want that too. If the universe allows it and if you want it. I'd like to have them with you one day. However, my mother would kill me if we had a kid before getting married." Elphaba says.

"Smart plan. Though, I'm pretty sure Momsie is already making monogrammed onesies." I tell her.

Elphaba chuckles and kisses my chin. "Like you weren't daydreaming about our future earlier. I know you already have many ideas in your brain now."

"Damn. I thought I was better about that." I wink.

She smiles and shakes her head, leaning up to kiss me. Both of us dream about our future together.

Chapter Text

I bounce my leg anxiously as I lean against Mum's Porsche 911, waiting for Elphaba to come out of the terminal.

My phone pings with a text from her, saying that she's waiting for her bag.

A few minutes later, I get another text that she's on her way out.

The automatic doors open, and she comes out wearing black joggers and a t-shirt, a pair of sneakers, and her glasses perched on her nose. She pulls her suitcase behind her, backpack on top while her garment bag is slung over her right shoulder.

I wave, and she spots me, smiling. She walks closer, and that is when I notice her whole arm is covered in new ink.

"Hey, baby." She smiles.

"You got a sleeve?" I ask, reaching for her arm.

She chuckles and puts down her garment bag, rolling up her sleeve. "You like?" She asks.

At the top of her shoulder are thunder clouds and lightning. Then, it transitions into the ocean with huge waves and a single lightning bolt hitting a ship. Then, the lightning bolt splits and transforms into intricate vines and flowers blooming down from an inch below her elbow to her wrist.

"Elphie, it's beautiful." I tell her, tracing my finger over the vine that goes around her car on the inside of her forearm.

"Thank you. I should have told you sooner I was thinking of getting this done." She says.

I wave her off. "It's okay. I like the surprise. Let's get going before we get a ticket." I wink as parking enforcement starts to make their way over.

Elphaba nods and opens the trunk. "Love the car by they way. This yours?" She asks, carefully laying down her garment bag.

I shake my head. "Sadly no. It's Mum's. She has a thing for vintage foreign cars."

Elphaba grins as we climb in. "I love your mum."

I laugh as I start the engine. "The way to your heart is with cars so..."

"You're not wrong." Elphaba nods as we pull away from the curb.

Fifteen minutes later, we pull up to the house. Well, it's more like a beach mansion.

The house sits on a hill, and the back faces the ocean with a path leading down to the beach.

Elphaba lets out a low whistle. "Damn, I thought I had money. Are you sure my NASCAR driving ass from North Carolina fits in here?" She asks as we get out of the car.

I come around to her side and bring her down for a reassuring kiss. "Yes, Elphie. You will fit in just fine. Besides, my parents love you, and that's all that matters. Who cares about their posh friends? I don't." I tell her, playing with the baby hairs at the base of her skull.

"Mmkay. I'm trusting you." She says.

I nod, and we get her stuff out of the car before going inside. I take her up to my room on the opposite side of the house from my parents' room.

She sets her stuff down at the foot of the bed and walks over to the large bay window that looks over the back yard and the beach.

I sit down on my bed and lean back on my elbows.

I clear my throat, and she turns around, arching an eyebrow.

"You know, we're here alone for a few hours while the moms are doing last-minute things for tonight. Why don't you come over here and show me how much you missed me?" I say with a sultry grin, making a come here motion with my finger.

Elphaba smirks and kicks off her shoes, taking off her shirt. "I thought you'd never ask."

After officially christening different sufaces of my childhood bedroom. We end up in a sweaty heap on the bed. I lay on my back while Elphaba curls up on my side. Her right arm thrown over my stomach while her head lays on my chest.

I trace my finger along one of the vines on her arm. "You wanna tell me about this?" I ask.

She nods and sits up against the headboard, the sheets pooling around her waist. I sit between her legs, facing her, crossing my legs under me.

"This like show and tell or something?" She jokes.

"Elphie." I whine.

"Okay, okay. Jeeze, you're impatient." She says.

"Yeah, well, I don't like to wait for things."

She rolls her eyes. "Don't I know it." She mumbles.

I slap her knee. "I heard that." I tell her, looking at her sideways.

"Hey! Alright, fine. I'll tell you. There is no need for violence." She says.

I nod. "Thank you."

She extends her arm in front of her, turning her arm so I can see the whole piece. "The storm is the force of nature trying to knock down the ship that's just trying to get from point A to B. The ship is me just trying to get through life, but things just keep trying to get in the way, knocking me down. The flowers and the vines are like the calm after the storm reminding me that even when the seas are rough and lightning strikes, there are beautiful and fulfilling things that can come from it.

"Each flower represents something different. Like the gladiolus stands for strength and courage and power. The sunflower for resilience. The rose for love. The calla lily for beauty. The daffodil for hope. The tulips for forgiveness. The vines represent the connection between all of these because you really can't have any without the others. They're all interconnected." She explains as I draw my finger over each flower.

"You really put a lot of thought into this. It's beautiful, Elphie. Truly." I tell her.

She smiles softly down at her arm. "Thank you."

I nod and cup her cheek, leaning forward, kissing her softly. "I love you."

She grins. "I love you too."

We get cleaned up, and I give her a tour of the house before going to the kitchen to make something to eat while we wait for moms to get back.

"Girls! We're back!" Mum says.

"In here!"

Moms come walking in and swarm Elphaba, almost knocking her off the stool.

"Thank you." Momsie tells her, kissing her cheek.

Elphaba grins. "It's worth it."

Okay, I'm lost.

"What's happening?" I ask, looking between moms and my girlfriend.

Mum raises an eyebrow, looking at Elphaba. "You didn't tell her?"

Elphaba shakes her head. "I didn't think it was going to hit until tonight at the gala. It was supposed to be a surprise for the three of you."

I tilt my head. "Surprise?"

Momsie smiles encouragingly. "Tell her."

Elphaba turns around and takes my hand. "I may or may not have donated my last winnings to the foundation."

My eyes go wide. "Elphie... you what?"

"I donated my last winning bonus to the foundation." She says.

"H- how much?" I ask.

"Between what I get from the race and then my contract with Diggs and the sponsors about $1.5 million give or take." She says casually.

I blink. Once then, twice. "Oh my god. Elphie! Why would you do that? Don't get me wrong, I'm grateful, but why?"

She smiles softly as she plays with my fingers. "Because thanks to cancer research, a little girl was saved and turned into the most beautiful woman I have ever laid my eyes on. The same woman whom I have the pleasure of loving every day and hopefully for the rest of my life."

Tears spring into my eyes, and I lean forward, hugging her tight, burying my face in her chest. "Thank you." I tell her.

"You're forever welcome." She says, kissing my head.

"Galinda. If you do not marry this woman someday, I'm putting you in a psych ward." Mum says.

I laugh against Elphaba's chest before picking my head up and kissing her.

I'm definitely marrying this woman someday.
___________

"Glinda! My bowtie does not want to cooperate." Elphaba says from my bedroom as I get ready in the bathroom.

I chuckle and put down my lipstick.

Elphaba stands in front of the full-length mirror dressed in navy slacks, thin gray suspenders over her crisp white button-down, fussing with her navy bowtie.

I clear my throat, and she turns around. "Glinda..." She says, looking over my navy maxi dress that has a plunging V neckline with a pleated halter and a thigh-high slit that's covered by a sheer skirt.

I smirk. "Keep it in your pants, Thropp. Now sit so I can help you. You're too tall."

She laughs and sits at the foot of the bed and hands me her bowtie.

I flip her collar up and work my magic. A couple of minutes later, she has a perfectly tied bowtie. "There. Perfect." I say, smoothing down her collar.

"Thank you." She says.

I lean down and kiss her softly. When I pull away, I notice something. "Are you wearing mascara?" I ask.

She blushes. "Yeah. I like to sometimes. Especially for fancy events. I keep it simple. Mascara and sometimes like a nude lipstick."

I comb my fingers through her hair. "I think you're beautiful." I tell her.

She smiles. "And you're going to end me with this dress." She says, running her hand up my thigh.

I smack her hand away. "Not so fast. You can drool all you want, but you don't get to have any of this until after." I tell her before sauntering back to the bathroom to finish my makeup.

I giggle as I hear her groan from the other room.

This is going to be a fun night.

Once we're finished getting ready, we head downstairs and meet the moms before going out to the car.

The driver takes the four of us to the country club just down the road.

The car pulls up to the entrance, and I take Elphaba's hand. "Come on, Elphie. Let's go party." I tell her, pulling her out of the car.

We walk in behind the moms, greeting guests and proudly introducing them to my girlfriend.

"Glinda!"

I spin around and my best friend since I can remember charges at us.

"Milla!" I squeal as I bring her in for a tight hug.

"Girl, it has been too long. You need to come home more often." She says.

"I know. I know. I'm a little occupied these days." I wink at Elphaba.

Milla gasps and looks up and down at Elphaba. "So you're the driver G won't shut up about."

Elphaba chuckles. "That's me. You must be the best friend."

"The one and only." Milla winks.

Milla steps closer to Elphaba and looks up at her, pointing at her. "You hurt her. You're dead." She says.

Elphaba nods. "Yes, ma'am." She says.

Milla steps back and links her arm with mine. "We need drinks." She says and pulls towards the open bar, leaving my girlfriend behind.

Thankfully, Momsie steps in and introduces Elphaba to one of her friends.

Milla and I get a glass of red wine, and I get a whiskey for Elphaba.

Mum pulls us over to talk with one of her colleagues when I see a woman I haven't seen in a few years walk up to Elphaba and introduce herself.

Milla spots her too and groans.

Sarima. My ex. The one who left me because she couldn't handle it when I told her about some of the traumatic things that I experienced in my career.

"Excuse us a moment. I need to get this drink to my girlfriend." I say, and Milla and I walk away.

"She's got some balls being here and introducing herself to that tall, dark, gorgeous woman of yours." Milla says.

"That she does. The only reason why she is here is because of her parents." I say.

"Ah." Milla nods.

We both take a drink of our wine as we get closer.

I slide up next to Elphie and lean up to kiss her cheek. "I got your drink, babe." I tell her with an overly sweet voice.

"Thank you." She says, taking the drink and then wrapping her arm around me.

I look to Sarima and give her a once over. She looks nice in her deep purple slip dress, but that's the only nice thing I have to say about her.

"Glinda. Nice to see you." She says.

I roll my eyes internally. "Wish I could say the same, Sarima. What are you even doing here?"

She looks down at her drink and then back up. "I deserved that. Listen, I'm really sorry for what I did to you. I shouldn't have left you like that."

I scoff and cross my arms over my chest. "No, you're not. You tried to get me to quit my job because you couldn't handle hearing about things that happened at work. You never cared for what I do. You hated that sometimes I was too tired to do anything. You hated that sometimes I had to work doubles. You never once stepped foot in that hospital to bring me lunch or dinner or just to surprise me. You only cared about getting out of here, and I was your ticket." I tell her.

She tries to speak, but I hold up a finger. "No. You don't get to try and defend yourself. You know, I'm actually thankful that you left because I found a woman who does all the things you didn't." I look up into those green eyes that melt everything away. "I found someone I want to build a future with."

I look back to Sarima, and she ducks her head and sets her drink down, and walks out the door.

"Holy shit. That was awesome!" Milla says.

I laugh and lean into Elphaba. "You okay?" She asks, kissing my head.

I look up at her and smile. "Never been better."

I take a sip of my wine and grab her hand. "Let's dance." I say and pull her towards the dance floor.

She smiles. "I thought you'd never ask."

Chapter Text

I open the door to my apartment exhausted after having to work a double because we're currently short staffed at the hospital.

On top of that, I had to cancel my plans of going down for Elphie's 28th birthday. Which is today.

I look at my watch. It's midnight. Well, yesterday now.

I missed her birthday entirely. I wasn't even able to call her. I was so busy.

I huff setting my stuff down by the door. I kick off my shoes and let my hair down, shaking it out.

"That's a sexy look you have going on, right there."

What?

I look up, and there stands my girlfriend coming out of the kitchen in an old t-shirt and Buffalo plaid pajama pants, a cocky little grin on her face that makes me feel like I want to slap her and kiss her at the same time.

I rub my eyes to make sure she's real and I'm not in some exhaustion induced delusion.

"Shit, did I break you?" She asks, walking forward.

"Wh- huh? How- why?" Is all I can come up with in my confused state.

I shake the fuzzies from my brain, clearing my throat. "Why are you here?"

She crosses her arms. "Do you not want me here?" She asks, a little hurt.

"No! I do! I do. Just why aren't you with your family on your birthday? Why come up here instead?" I ask.

"I missed you. I wanted to spend a little time with you to celebrate, even if it's a few minutes past my birthday now." She explains.

I nod and fall into her. "You're too good for me. I'll make it up to you tomorrow. That is if I don't get called in. Right now, I'd love a shower and my bed. Preferably with you in it. Clothes optional. However, I'm too tired for any funny business."

She presses a kiss to my head and picks me up. She locks my door and carries me to the bedroom.

She helps me undress, throwing my pink scrubs into their designated hamper before starting the shower for me.

Once the shower is at my preferred temperature, she comes out and gets me, guiding me into the bathroom.

Once I step under hot water, my body relaxes.

Elphaba turns to walk out of the bathroom, but I ask her to stay.

She hops up on the counter, kicking her feet softly. "How was work?" She asks.

"Long. There are so many kids to help. Not enough nurses. This was my fifth double in two weeks. I'm not even sure if that's legal. I'm so tired, Elphie. I don't know how long I can do this for." I tell her.

"Have you thought about going to a different hospital?" She asks.

I shake my head as I rinse my hair. "It's not like I haven't looked anywhere else. I have. It's just that I can't leave yet. I don't think my heart could take it."

Elphaba nods and smirks. "You know, there are some pretty great children's hospitals in North Carolina."

I laugh as I turn off the shower. She hops off the counter and hands me a fluffy towel.

"I love you, but I'm not ready to make that move yet." I tell her, stepping out of the shower.

"I know. I'm just expanding your options." She says, kissing me softly.

"You just want me to move in with you."

"It's my dream to wake up next to you every day."

"I thought your dream was to win the Cup Series." I tease.

She rolls her eyes. "Yes, but you're dream number one." She says.

"You're so cute." I tell her, pinching her cheek.

She playfully swats my hand away. "Galinda." She whines.

"Ooo, the full name." I wink, drying myself off.

"Babe, I'm trying to be serious. I want you to move in with me in North Carolina." She says.

I sigh and turn around, running my hands over her arms. "I know, baby. I love you. A lot. But we've only been together less than a year, and our schedules are crazy right now and only see each other once or twice a month if we're lucky. I would love to live with you one day. For right now, I'm saying no, but ask me again in another six months. I'll give you a different answer."

Elphaba nods and exhales, bringing me closer. "Okay." She says.

I smile and lean up to kiss her. "You're upset, aren't you?" I ask.

She shakes her head, and I give her a look.

She sighs, and her shoulders sag. "Maybe a little. I know this long-distance thing is not forever, but it sucks, you know? I love you so much, and I just want you there every day." She says.

"I know, Elphie. I promise that before we hit two years, we will be living together. We're almost at a year now. That's not too long, right?" I ask, caressing her cheek.

"No." She says, but I can tell she's still not satisfied.

I sneak my hands under her shirt, wrapping them around her waist. "I love you." I kiss her chest. "We will move in together one day. I promise. I just need to make sure I annoy you as much as possible now so that way when you decide I'm crazy you can still run."

Elphie chuckles and kisses my head. "It's kinda hard to stay upset when you put it that way." She says.

I laugh and lean up to kiss her. "See?! I told you." I step back grabbing her hand. "Now come on, birthday girl, get naked so we can go to bed, and so I can ravish you in the morning when I'm not having hallucinations."

Elphaba nods and follows me into the bedroom. I pull back the covers and get in, watching my girlfriend undress, biting my lip at her strong body as she climbs in. I turn over, and she spoons me from behind. I playfully push my ass back into her crotch.

"I thought you were tired?" She asks, her arm slung over my waist.

"I am. Goodnight, Elphie."

She presses a kiss to my neck. "Goodnight, love."
____________

The next morning, I wake up to a mess of black braids in my face. I grin and scoot closer, wrapping my arm around Elphaba's waist. I bury my nose in her neck and breathe her in for a moment.

I kiss her neck softly as I move my hand to her hip, then run it across her stomach, then back to her hip. She stirs but doesn't wake.

My hand travels lower, over her naval, and under her hardening shaft.

Two fingers part her folds and swipe across her clit, elicting a moan from her.

"G..." She gasps.

"Good morning, Elphie." I mumble against her shoulder.

I dip my fingers into her wet heat, and she opens her legs, allowing me more access.

Her breath hitches as I slowly pump my fingers into her.

Elphaba reaches back, grabbing my thigh as she rocks into my hand, my palm grinding against her clit with each thrust.

She turns on her back, and I lean over, kissing her passionately before kissing my way down to her chest.

"Fuck." She moans.

I smirk as I wrap my lips around her nipple.

Her hand that was on my thigh, finds it's way between my legs, her finger nestling between my folds and circling my clit.

I moan, bitting down on her nipple.

She hisses, and I pull my mouth away, seeing the angry red mark that now graces her darkened nipple. I kiss it softly and roll my tongue over it.

I spread my legs as much as I can, laying on my side.

Two long fingers slide into me.

"Unh..." I moan.

Elphaba takes her free hand and wraps it around her dick, stroking it. "Fuck... baby. I'm close." She says.

I move my hand faster, thrusting harder into her. Her walls start to close around me.

I kiss her hard as her hips jump and she cums hard over my fingers.

She moans into my mouth and I gently rub her clit helping her through.

Once she's down, I pull my fingers out and lick them clean.

"That's one hell of a wake-up call." She chuckles, rolling on top of me, her fingers still inside.

"Told you I was going to ravish you in the morning." I wink, wrapping my hand around her cock.

"So you did." A low moan leaves her mouth as I twist my hand tightly up and down her shaft, causing her fingers to still. "Oh, shit baby. Your hand feels so good." Elphaba pants.

I use my other hand and wrap it around the back of her neck, bringing her down for a kiss.

Before she falls on top of me, she catches herself with both hands. I whine at the loss of her inside me.

"Sorry." She murmurs on my lips.

I kiss her deeper.

My thumb swipes over the head of her dick and her hips thrust forward.

Jackpot.

I push her on her back and reach into my nightstand, grabbing my rabbit ear vibrator.

Her hand takes over, stroking herself furiously while her other hand rubs her clit.

"Glinda." She moans, looking up at me as I kneel in front of her, inserting the vibrator in me.

My back arches as I turn it on, kneading my breast. "Elphie!" I moan.

"Fuck! You're so beautiful, baby. Make yourself cum." She says.

I turn it up to the highest setting.

My thighs start to quiver as I try to stay up, watching as she masturbates with me.

I move the toy in and out at the same pace as her hands, wanting to cum with her.

"I'm there, baby!" She says.

Unh! Me too!" I tell her.

Elphaba arches off the bed as white hot ropes shoot out of her dick and onto her stomach while her core spasms. My walls close around the toy tightly, and my whole body shakes as I cum.

"Glinda!"

"Elphaba!"

We both stop everything as we ride our highs.

The toy falls out of me and continues to vibrate across the bed.

We look at the toy and then back at each other and laugh before I reach to turn it off.

Elphaba looks up at me, chest heaving, covered in cum with a sly grin. "That was fucking hot." She says.

I raise an eyebrow. "You think so? Eating you out would be even hotter." I tell her, situating myself between her legs.

I lick the cum off her stomach as I make my way down. I playfully lick the underside of her dick, earning a gasp from her before tonguing her clit.

Her hips come off the bed as she's still sensitive from her last orgasm.

I lap at her clit until she's pushing my head away because she's too sensitive from her almost consecutive orgasms.

I lay next to her, staring at the ceiling. The bed shifts, and Elphaba hovers over me. "Hello, there." I smile, wrapping my arms around her neck.

"I can barely feel my legs, you know." She says.

"That was the whole point, birthday girl." I wink.

"You're gonna pay for that." She says.

I smirk. "Gladly."

Her dick pokes my folds. She takes hold of it and taps my clit before lining it up with my entrance.

My smirk quickly disappears as she pushes into me, filling me with her thick cock. "Oh, God."

Elphaba leans down to kiss me. "Just me, baby." She winks, moving her hips.

I roll my eyes. "Smart ass."

She laughs and thrusts into me deeply, sending a pleasure filled shiver down my spine.

At first, she starts out slow and deep, taking her time. Then, it turns fast and hard. My legs wrap around her waist, my fingers digging into her shoulders.

It feels like her lips are all over my neck and chest.

"Elphaba..." I gasp as her lips find my nipple. She snakes her arms under me, holding me closer as she plows into me.

Elphaba picks her head up, and her lips find mine, her tongue slipping through.

Lips, teeth, and tongues clash as she fucks me, creening towards release.

I go first, calling out her name as I cum around her. Elphaba is not far behind, whimpering against my lips as she pumps her seed into me.

Her head falls to my chest as she groans, pumping the last bit of cum into me.

I run my fingers through her hair, kissing her head. "Happy birthday, Elphie."

She chuckles and kisses my sternum. "Thank you, baby."

Chapter Text

Elphie didn't win the Cup Series this year. She did place third, though, overall.

Next year will be her year. So she says. I have the utmost faith in her.

It's her time.

Now, after getting some time off from the hospital after putting in all the overtime that I did because of the shortage and the hospital hiring five more nurses. I now have an uninterrupted week and a half in North Carolina.

The moms are here too, for Thanksgiving.

It's also the first time our families are meeting each other.

Elphaba and I are a little nervous. Mostly about Shell behaving himself.

I roll over and kiss Elphie on the head before getting out of bed. I find her old high school hoodie with her name on the back and throw it on over my t-shirt.

I shut the door softly behind me before bounding downstairs when the wonderful scent of freshly brewed coffee hits my nose.

Mum must be up. She always has been an early riser.

"Good morning Duckie." Mum greets, her reading glasses perched on her nose as she reads something on her phone.

"Morning." I kiss the top of her head before making myself a cup of coffee.

Behind me, I hear a, "hm."

I turn around to Mum grinning at me. "What?"

"Nothing." She smirks. "That name looks good on you. Just promise me one thing: never forget you'll always be an Upland."

"Mum." I start. "Upland is forever," I tell her.

She nods, taking her glasses off. "What about Thropp?"

I need more coffee before getting into this. I take a large sip of my creamer with a side of coffee as Elphie says. To me, it's how it's supposed to be. She on the other hand argues coffee is supposed to be drunk black. I think she's nuts.

"I want her to be. She's everything, Mum. I will marry her one day. It's just still too early, right? I mean we're not even living in the same state." I explain.

"That's for you to decide, honey. Momsie and I were married after six months. If you're not ready to take that step then you're not ready and that's fine. There are no rules or regulations for relationships. It's only up to you to figure out what's best for you. No one else." Mum explains.

I nod, fiddling with the handle of my mug. "I know. We've talked about. She's asked me to move in with her already, but I told her it's too soon. And everything going on at the hospital, I can't leave just yet."

"Can I ask you something?"

I nod, sipping my coffee.

"If work wasn't a problem, and she asked you to move in with you today, what would you say?" Mum asks.

"Yes. Within a heartbeat. She's the person I'm building my future with. She's the one I want to have babies with. She's the one I want to spend my life with." I say.

"So maybe the only thing holding you back is the duty you feel you have to your job because of things you can't control," Mum says.

I lean back against the counter and think for a moment. She is right. I do feel like I have to make up for what is going on at work which makes me feel like I can't leave. I love it there and that hospital will always have a part of my heart, but my heart is a green-eyed racecar driver in North Carolina.

"I need to talk with Elphaba."

Mum smiles. "I think you do."

As if on cue Elphie comes shuffling into the kitchen, bonnet still on and her glasses crooked on her face.

Mum stands from the stool and taps the counter. "I'll leave you two." She says going back to the downstairs bedroom probably to go annoy Momsie.

"Oh, um good morning Idina," Elphie says.

"Good morning, Elphaba." Mum smiles as they pass each other.

Elphie comes to the kitchen and wraps herself around me. "It's too early." She grumbles.

"It's almost eight. I think you'll survive." I turn in her arms. "We need to talk," I tell her.

She lifts her head off my shoulder and straightens her glasses. She's awake now.

"This is not 'the talk'. I promise. It's a good talk. Make your coffee and meet me on the balcony." I kiss her cheek and grab my mug before heading upstairs to the balcony off Elphaba's room.

A few minutes later she joins me with a couple of blankets to keep us warm as it's a little chilly this morning.

She sits in the chair next to me.

I take a deep breath. I tell her about my conversation with Mum and the conclusion I've come to.

Elphie leans back in the Adirondack chair, looking out over the property. "Okay. I mean just last month you were saying that you weren't ready. I completely understand, but what changed?" She asks.

I reach over and take her hand. "My heart isn't there, Elphie. I love my job, my coworkers, and the kids, but after my talk with Mum, I realized my heart is here with you and I should follow my heart."

A small smile plays at her lips. "Are you sure about this? I didn't rush you, did I? Because if I did I'll never forgive myself and-" I put a finger to her lips and climbed into her lap.

I shake my head. "I'm sure, honey. I promise you didn't rush me. Mum made me realize I shouldn't let anything hold me back from being truly happy. You make me happy and a very wise woman told me to take those leaps because it can all be over in a flash. So, that is what I'm doing."

Elphaba looks up at me teary-eyed. "I love you."

I lean down and kiss her lovingly. "I love you too," I tell her, resting my head on her shoulder.

She wraps her arms around me, holding me close. "So, when do you want to move in?" She asks.

"Not until after the holidays. They're going to need me then. Most take off to be with their kids. The holidays are when single staff members get to shine."

Elphie laughs and kisses my head. "You got it, baby."

I loop my arms around her neck as I cuddle into her chest. She wraps the blanket tighter around us.

"Is now a good time to tell you I've already been looking at positions around Charlotte and Concord?" I ask.

She smiles into my hair. "The timing couldn't be better, baby."

We stay up here a little longer enjoying the peace before going back down to check on moms.

When we get downstairs they're making breakfast.

Mum spots us first. "There they are! I was wondering when you two were going to join us down here."

I look to Elphaba then back to them. "I know. We had a lot to talk about."

"And?" Momsie asks, bouncing on her toes.

"After the holidays I'm moving to North Carolina," I beam, looking up at Elphaba.

Momsie squeals and pulls me in for a tight hug, then Elphaba.

"This is so exciting! I can't wait. God, it feels just like yesterday I was moving in with Mum. Now my baby is moving in with her love," Momsie says, getting all sentimental.

"Then before you know it, thirty years will have gone by and it still feels like the day you moved in," Mum says.

Momsie turns to Mum. "You still feel that way?"

Mum nods. "I do, love."

Momsie goes over to Mum and kisses her softly.

Elphie tightens her arm around me and I know we're thinking the same thing. We want what they have.

After breakfast, we help Elphaba make a few dishes to bring over for Thanksgiving dinner.

Once they are completed we all separate to get dressed.

When everyone is ready we grab the food and head over.

When we walk in the back door of Melena's house it's pure chaos and I love it. She's chasing Shell out of the kitchen with a hand towel as he keeps stealing bites of something. Ellie is running around with Boq. Nessa is yelling at Boq to make sure Ellie stays clean until dinner. In the midst of it all the Patriarch of the family Peerless is snoozing away in his recliner with the game on.

"Mom, we're here!" Elphaba announces.

Melena stops in her tracks, looking horrified when she spots my moms. "Oh my gosh, I am so sorry you had to witness this chaos. Some first impression this is," she says, holding her hand to her heart.

"We get it. Honestly. We know how crazy holidays can be." Momsie says.

"Yes, but I don't want you to think that your daughter is surrounded by crazies," Melena says.

"She's been surrounded by crazy her whole life. This is just family being family," Mum says.

Melena smiles. "I think the three of us are going to get along just fine. Welcome to the chaos."

Moms both smile. "We're happy to be here."

Elphie and I look at each other relieved. Everything is going to be just fine.

Elphie and I take stuff to the kitchen while everyone gets introduced to moms.

When we walked into the living room Ellie had staked her claim with Momise. That was until she spotted me.

She hops off Momsie's lap and runs to me. "Linda!" She says.

"Hi, Munchkin," I smile, picking her up. "I see you met my Momsie. We look a lot alike don't we?"

Ellie nods. "Pwetty hair," she says, playing with one of my curls.

"We have the same hair, don't we? Just like you and your daddy have the same hair," I tell her.

She nods, resting her head on my shoulder.

"Okay, so when are you going to give us grandbabies? That was too cute!" Momsie says.

I roll my eyes and Elphaba coughs. "Slow down there, Momsie. You'll get them soon enough. Just let me start living here first."

Melena pipes in. "And when is that going to be?"

I look to Elphaba. "By the new year, G will be moved in," She announces.

"Yes! Another person I can coherence into annoying, Fae!" Shell says, clapping his hands together.

Elphaba rolls her eyes. "You even think about it, I'm never letting you touch the Lambo ever again," She says with a deadly glare.

Shell nods and sinks back into the couch.

Peerless shakes his head and looks up at me. "Are you sure you want to live with all these crazies, Ms. Glinda? I wouldn't be offended if you change your mind."

I laugh. "I'm sure, Papa."

He nods and turns back to the game. "Alright, but don't say I didn't warn you."

Melena rolls her eyes at her father. "Don't mind him. We're happy to have you here Glinda. I've never seen Fabala so happy or so excited to take that step with someone."

"Thank you," I tell her.

She smiles. "Of course."

The oven goes off and Melena stands from the couch. "Idina, Larena, I know you are our guests, but would you mind helping me in the kitchen? My children are more disruptive than helpful."

"Hey!" Comes from the three Thropp siblings.

"We'd love to!" Momsie says. She and Mum follow Melena into the kitchen. Not even two minutes later I hear a bottle of wine open and a round of laughter follows.

They're getting along just fine.

"Taking bets now that the three of them will be drunk by the time dinner is ready," Elphaba says as we sit on the couch together, Ellie snoozing away on my shoulder.

"I'm in!" Nessa and Shell say.

"I'm going to bet against the three of you. Glinda, your moms look like they know how to hold their alcohol," Boq says.

I chuckle. "If you think so. I think you're going to have to pay big here soon."

"Should we set the wager at $10?" Elphie asks.

Shell shakes his head. "No way! Make the big bucks. You bet more than that."

Elphie gives him a look. "You do realize that we're on the same side here, kid. You wouldn't be getting my money anyway."

"Fine. $10 it is." He says.

"Shell, you don't even have ten dollars," Peerless says.

We all laugh. He pouts in his seat.

"Assholes!" He says.

Nessa rolls over and swats him over the head. "Hey! No swearing in front of my kid."

"She's asleep. She can't hear me," He defends.

"Still."

By the time dinner is ready, all three of the mothers are slightly wine drunk.

They get confused when Boq hands the four of us kids $10.

"The three of you have fun in there?" Peerless asks as he cuts the turkey.

Mum nods. "We did in fact."

Once the turkey is cut and plates are filled and the moms stop giggling like school girls we go around the table and we all say what we're thankful for.

Peerless starts. "I'm thankful for another trip around the sun with my family."

Then, Melena. "I'm thankful that all my children are happy and healthy."

"I think I can speak for both Larena and me in saying that we're thankful for you all for taking in our daughter with open arms and for allowing us to join you and hopefully for many years to come," Mum says.

Boq and Nessa both say they're thankful for Ellie who is seated on my lap. She of course says she's thankful for turkey.

Shell says he's thankful for soccer and the internet.

"What about you, Elphaba?" Momsie asks.

"That I'm still here and get to witness this chaos," She takes my hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. "And for this amazing woman who came into my life and saw me for me and chose to love me every day," She smiles.

There is a collective, "awe."

Shell pretends to gag. Melena swats him.

I lean over and kiss her cheek. "Me too, Elphie," I smile back at her.

Chapter Text

Fiyero and Pfannee corner me at the nurses' station where I'm filling out a report.

"Hi, boys." I greet, not looking up from my computer.

"Ma'am. It is Christmas. Why are you here and not with that beautiful woman of yours?" Pfannee asks.

"Because I promised I would cover for Rachel months ago so she could spend Christmas with her kids. Also, Elphie and I agreed that I wouldn't move in until after the holidays, when we're the most understaffed." I explain, leaning back in my chair.

Fiyero scoffs. "Well, aren't you Glinda the good?" He asks.

He's still a little bitter about me leaving D.C.

I shrug. "Maybe." I wink, standing from the desk and walking over to the printer.

I pull what I need and leave the boys at the station to deliver the report to one of the doctors.

As I walk back to the station my watch vibrates with an incoming text from Elphaba.

"Good morning, baby, Merry Christmas!" I reads.

"Ooo, she sent a nude?" Pfannee asks, smirking at me.

I roll my eyes. "No. It was just a good morning text. She wished me a merry Christmas."

"Well, that's no fun." He huffs and looks down at his pager as it goes off.

"Have fun!" I sing-song as he disappears down the hall.

I pull my phone out and text Elphaba back.

"Hi, lovely! Merry Christmas to you too! How'd you sleep?" I write.

The three little dots appear. "Good. Though I wish you were in bed with me. I'm getting more antsy as the days go on as your things start to arrive, but no you :("

I smile. "Soon enough, Elphie. Two more days. Then I'm all yours and taking up the whole bed ;)"

"I can't wait." She says.

She makes me feel so giddy.

My pager buzzes and I put my phone away.

I go to the suite I'm requested to.

"Hey, Grace, what's up?" I ask the young girl.

"I need to go potty." She says.

"Let's get you unhooked, yeah?" I ask, slipping on a pair of gloves.

I unhook her heart monitor and blood pressure cuff. I grab her walker and help her stand up and keep her steady as she hops on her good leg to the bathroom.

After helping her to the bathroom to do her business then helped her back to bed. I hook her back up.

"Nurse bubbles?" She asks. "Is it true you're leaving?"

I've known Grace since she was probably three years old in and out of here, surgery after surgery to help her club foot on her right side.

Right now she's on an extended stay because of an infection.

I nod and sit down on the wheelie stool next to her bed. "I am. I'm moving to North Carolina."

Grace looks over at me sadly. "But why? Don't you like it here?"

I sigh softly. I hate this. I hate leaving the kids, but I'm ready for a new beginning.

"I love it here. I'll miss everyone here. Including you." I wink and she giggles. "But I found the person I want to have a family with and she lives in North Carolina," I explain.

"The woman you brought in to surprise, Kenny?" She asks.

"That's her." I smile.

"Do you love her?" Grace asks, playing with her fingers.

"I do."

"Do you want to marry her?"

"I do."

"Does that mean your kids will have two mommies like I have two daddies?"

I look over at her dads who look at her proudly. "They will yes."

"Are you going to work with kids down there too?" She asks.

I nod, taking her hand. "I will, but I want you to know that you'll always be one of my favorite kiddos to look after. You know that you were the first kid I helped when I started here? You're very special to me and I never want you to forget that." I tell her.

She sniffles and leans forward, hugging me. I'm taken by surprise, but quickly reciprocate the hug. "I'm gonna miss you." She says.

I smile softly, trying to keep the tears at bay. "I'll miss you too," I tell her, pulling back from the hug. "Hey, listen," I start softly as she wipes her eyes. "I'm going to give your Papa my number okay? So we can always keep in touch. Maybe if you're ever in North Carolina, we can meet up if you'd like, if it's okay with your dads?" I ask.

She nods and looks at them. "Can we do that?"

Brian, her Papa nods, smiling. "We'll see. We need to get you better first."

She squeals and I let out a little chuckle before giving Brian my number, promising that before I leave tonight I will come and say goodbye.

"Merry Christmas, nurse bubbles," Grace says as I reach the door.

I turn to her, smiling. "Merry Christmas, Grace."

I walk back to the nurses' station and sit down with a heavy sigh.

Leaving this place just got a little harder.

"Girl, do not tell me you're regretting your last day?" Maria, a coworker of mine who started right around the time I did asks.

I shake my head. "I swear I'm not. I just went to help Grace and I had to tell her I was leaving. You should have seen the look on her face. I might have to ask Pfannee to drive me home because I don't think I'm going to make it."

"It's hard. I know. Look at what is waiting for you on the other side though. I'd kill for what you have." She says.

I chuckle. "I know. It's great. She's great and we're starting our life together, but this place is where my career started and I've met some amazing people here. It's hard to let go."

Maria nods, putting away a file. "No one said it was easy. We'll miss you here, but you have the chance at a fresh start. You'll be making friends in no time and connecting with even more kids. Just make sure you don't forget about us here in D.C." She says.

"I won't. I promise. I'll come and visit. The boys will kill me if I don't." I tell her.

"You're dang right!" Fiyero says coming out of one of the rooms.

I laugh, wiping my face as a tear escapes.

Maria is called away and I'm left at the desk.

"This is going to be harder than I thought." I send to Elphaba.

"Having regrets?" She asks.

"No! No. I'm ready for the change and to be with you. It's just hard saying goodbye." I explain.

"Never is easy. Listen, it's your last day so take it all in while you can. I love you. You got this. Then get your pint-sized self here to NC so I can kiss all over and never stop." She writes.

I laugh softly. "I love you too Elphie <3"

"I know. BTW your last box of stuff got here yesterday. Want me to unpack it so there is less to worry about when you get here?" She asks.

A couple of weeks ago Elphaba came up with Shell and I packed up a majority of my stuff and put it in her truck to take back to Charlotte. I also had to ship a couple of things that would not fit in my car or her truck. My apartment came fully furnished so the only things I have left to bring down are my toiletries, some clothes, and my dishes.

Everything else is already home.

I smile. Home. Elphie is home.

"Honey, it's Christmas. Don't worry about my shit. We can unpack it when I get home in a couple of days."

"I know. I'm just excited." She says.

I melt. "Me too, Elphie."

Someone clears their throat behind me and I jump. "What are you doing Ms. Galinda?" The head nurse Marsha Morrible asks.

There is one thing I will not miss here. My dreadful boss. Her nickname around here is Horrible Morrible.

"Sorry. My girlfriend was just telling me that some more of my things arrived."

The older woman nods. "Very well. Since it's your last day I won't write you up. Consider it a parting gift."

I want to roll my eyes so bad right now.

I put on a fake smile. "Thank you."

She nods and walks away. Then I let out the biggest eye roll of my life. Like my eyes almost got stuck in the back of my head.

The rest of my shift goes by kinda slow save for a few kids that come in for injuries they sustained while playing recklessly with new toys or their cousins at grandma's house.

I clock out for the last time and pack up my locker before turning in my badge.

I take my things out to my car before coming back in one last time to say goodbye to Grace one last time like I promised her before heading to my bare apartment.

"Good evening, Ms. Glinda." Darius greets me as I walk through the lobby.

"Darius. Why aren't you at home with your grandkids?" I ask.

"Meg and the girls went to Will's parents' house this year." He says.

"So you decided to spend the holiday here?" I ask.

"I could ask the same thing." He says.

I playfully narrow my eyes at him. "Tuché."

He chuckles and brings up a medium-sized box and sets it on the counter. "I believe this is for you. Came in just this afternoon."

I take the box. It has a little weight to it.

"Thank you, Darius. I'm going to miss you when I leave this place." I tell him.

He cracks a smile. "No, you won't. You'll be having too good a time."

I shake my head. "Yeah, but you won't be there to greet me every day and bestow all your wisdom upon me."

He laughs. "I wouldn't call all that wisdom, but sure!" He says.

I smile. "Merry Christmas, Darius. I'll be down later to pester you while I still can." I wink.

He nods. "It's a date! Just don't tell Elphaba I said that. Merry Christmas to you too."

"You got it. It'll be our little secret." I wink before making my way to the elevators.

I make it up to my apartment and set the box on the coffee table before going to shower and change.

I slip into Elphaba's plaid pajama pants that I stole and her team-issued hoodie with her name on the back.

I reheat my leftovers from yesterday before curling up on the couch. The box on the coffee table in front of me catches my eye.

I eat quickly and set the container aside before opening the box.

Inside is what looks to be a book. It's not just any book.

On the cover is a black and white photo of us. The setting sun is behind us as we sit on the beach. Elphaba is looking at the camera while I lay my head on her shoulder.

This I think was one of the first pictures taken of us together.

I pull the large book out of the box and set it on the table.

I open the book to a glossy blank white page with gold loopy script that belongs to Elphaba.

"To my love. My best friend. My rock. My cheerleader. And occasionally my Crew Chief. Here's to one year of us." She wrote.

I flip the page and it's the story of us. Every page has different pictures of us with little captions she wrote telling what we were doing or how we were feeling.

The book ended a couple of weeks ago when she and Shell were here.

She's sitting on the tailgate of her truck, I'm standing between her legs with my arms wrapped around her waist, my head on her chest, eyes. Her arms wrapped around my shoulders. She smiled into my hair, looking right at Shell, green eyes sparkling as he snapped the photo.

Those sneaky little shits. I had no idea they took that picture.

Granted I can't be too mad. It's a great picture even if my hair is a mess and I have no makeup on.

Next to the photo is the last caption. "The day that our forever started. Your things were coming home with us, but you weren't. At least not yet."

"Elphie." I coo, running my thumb over her face.

Almost as if she knew her face lit up my phone.

I swipe to answer, wiping my tears.

"Hey, baby!" She says. Then she catches my face. "What's wrong?" She asks.

I laugh, shaking my head. "Nothing. I was just looking through the book you had made. Elphie, I... It's beautiful." I tell her.

She looks at me surprised. "The one with all the pictures and stuff?" I nod. "Shit. I must have had it sent to the wrong place. I must have left your address in my auto-fill. That was for our anniversary." She says.

"The one-year thing makes more sense now," I say. "Honey. It's okay. I love this. Even if I wasn't supposed to see this yet. Thank you. I was missing you today and this helped. A lot."

"I miss you too," She smiles. "You're welcome. You really liked it? I was so nervous when I was putting it together."

"Elphie I love it. No one has ever done this for me before. Even if it was for our anniversary. This is the best Christmas gift I've ever gotten." I tell her, smiling.

"Well then. Merry Christmas, Glinda." She smiles.

"Merry Christmas, Elphie. Though I feel bad I didn't get you anything."

Her smile widens. "No need. You're coming home. That's the only thing I wanted for Christmas this year and it looks like Santa has delivered."

"Soon Elphie. Soon."

Chapter Text

My alarm goes off and I groan.

I shut my alarm off and reach over for Elphaba, but she's not there. I frown.

She might already be up, granted she's not one to willingly get up at five in the morning.

If there are cars involved she'll gladly get up to work on them with Peerless. Other than that forget it.

I throw back the covers with a yawn as I swing my legs over the edge and stretch.

I pad over to the bathroom and go through my routine.

Today's my first day at Levine Children's Hospital which is part of Atrium Health.

I'm excited but also a little nervous.

I finish my routine of brushing my teeth and washing my face before putting on some light makeup.

I walk over to the closet and change into my pink Figs.

I put my hair up and grab my bag, putting in a change of clothes to keep in my locker at work.

I find my pink Nikes and put them on after my socks before going downstairs.

That's when I find Elphie in the kitchen, standing in front of the stove in a pair of shorts that sit low on her hips and a tank top.

I sneak up behind her, wrapping my arms around her waist.

"Hello there." She says, covering my hands with one of hers

"Hi." I smile against her back. "What are you doing up this early?"

She reaches over and turns the stove off, patting my hands. I step back as she brings the pan of eggs over to the plates behind us. She plates the eggs next to the sausage, fruit, and toast that are already on the plates.

She puts the pan back on the stove and hands me a plate and a fork, kissing my cheek. "I figured my girl could use a good breakfast before her first day at her new job."

Could she be any more perfect? "You're so sweet. Thank you." I tell her, kissing her softly.

She smiles on my lips. "I'd gladly do it again. I love you." She tells me, kissing me again.

"I love you too," I tell her.

We take our plates over to the table before Elphaba runs back over to grab the coffee which is much needed at this time of morning.

We sit and dig in. "Do you have any plans for today?" I ask.

Elphaba nods. "Yeah. I'm going into the practice facility. Dillamond wants to start reviewing footage and start on the new simulator Diggs got for the team. Preseason has officially started." She says, bringing a strawberry to her lips.

"How are you feeling about this season? Don't give me your interview answer. Give me your answer."

Elphaba nods, swallowing her food before sipping her coffee. "I feel like my accident is fully behind me now and I'm not letting my fear control me anymore," She fiddles with the napkin next to her. "Everything is improving. I mean you saw what happened at the end of last season. I was so close. I just want to put the pedal to the metal and win, G. I want to win the Cup Series so bad." She says.

I thread my fingers through hers. "You will Elphie. You've said it yourself. It's going to be your year, baby. Since Mexico there is this confidence you have that according to Dillamond you haven't had since before your accident."

She smiles softly. "He's right. I have the fire now and I need to use it. If I win Daytona, Brickyard, and Watkins Glen. I'm going to win the whole damn thing."

I grin, leaning over and kissing her soundly. "I like that plan." I look up at her, biting my lip. "This confidence you have is also really sexy," I tell her, cupping her cheek.

She smirks, looking down at me. "Mm, you think so?" She asks, grabbing the leg of my chair and pulling me closer.

I look down at her lips. "Oh, honey I know so." I wink.

She leans down and kisses me deeply, pulling me into her lap so I'm straddling her.

I fist her braids at the base of her neck and pull her head back, a moan escapes her lips.

I look down at her wickedly. "You want a little something before I leave, don't you?"

There is a fire behind her eyes. "Maybe..." She plays casually with a shrug of her shoulders.

I chuckle and kiss her sweetly. "I hate to break it to you Elphie, but I have to get to work soon."

She frowns. "We can be quick."

I shake my head, caressing her cheek. "It's never quick with us babe," I tell her, as I stand from her lap.

She grumbles and picks at the remaining bits of food on her plate.

I give her a look. "Are you pouting right now?" I ask amused.

"No." She huffs.

I laugh, picking up my mostly empty plate and carrying it to the sink, turning on the garbage disposal. All that was left were a couple of half-eaten berries and a corner of my toast.

I turn the garbage disposal off and put my plate in the dishwasher.

Elphaba comes up behind me, putting her plate in the sink. I turn towards her and wrap my arms around her neck. "I promise, tonight I will make it up to you." I pull her down while I lean up on my tippy toes and press a reassuring kiss to her lips. "I love you," I tell her.

"I love you too." She mumbles.

She's still a little miffed. My horny baby.

Normally I wouldn't pass up a chance to fool around, but I do need to leave soon. I'll make it up to her. Don't worry.

She knows it too, she's just trying to be tough.

"Have a good day. I love you. Text me if you need anything." She says, pressing a kiss to my lips as we stand at the door.

"Thank you. I love you too. I'll see you tonight. " I tell her.

My watch beeps that it's time to go. I kiss her one more time before heading out the door.

I put my stuff in the back of my car and blew a kiss to Elphaba as I got in the driver's seat.

Thirty minutes later I arrive at the hospital and park in the parking garage before heading in.

I came in a few days ago to get my credentials and was shown around a little bit so I'm not completely lost.

A tall redhead comes bounding my way in the elevator in the parking garage. "Hold the door!" She says.

I slam the open button and she slides in, relieved just as the doors close.

"Thank you." She breathes, pushing some hair out of her face. "Are you the new nurse that's starting today in peds?" She asks.

I nod. "I am. I'm Glinda Upland. I just moved here from D.C. a month ago."

"ShenShen Minkos. Nice to meet you." She smiles.

"You too. You wouldn't mind showing me the ropes here today, would you?" I ask.

"Not at all. Someone needs to fill you in on the dirt here." She winks.

I laugh.

I think this is going to be a good first day.

"What made you decide to move to Charlotte from D.C.?" ShenShen asks as we enter the locker room to put our stuff away.

My heart rate quickens. It's never easy revealing your sexuality to a person. Especially at your new job. I shut my locker, locking it.

"My girlfriend and I moved in together. We'll have been together a year next month." I say.

ShenShen smiles. "Awe. That's so cute! Things are getting serious then, must be?"

I nod with a tight-lipped smile. "I think so. We're both very busy. We know we want to get married one day, but we're not in a rush. Though, that hasn't stopped me from sending her ring ideas." I wink.

ShenShen laughs. "As you should. Better to tell her what you want than to keep her guessing."

"Exactly!" I say, following her out of the locker room. "It's not that I don't trust her opinion. It's just that I'm very specific."

We walk down the hall to the nurses' station. "You know what you want. I like that." ShenShen says as we clock in.

The charge nurse, an older short heavier set woman with her hair in a neat bun and glasses perched on her nose, Leanne Coddle comes over, greeting both of us.

"Ms. Glinda, I hope Ms. Minkos has been showing you around? Feel free to shadow her or me until you feel like you've gotten a grasp on this place." She says kindly.

"Yes, she has. This place is much different than Children's National. I'm hoping that in the next couple of shifts, I will have this place down. I'm excited to get to work." I tell her.

Coddle smiles. "We're lucky to have you here on our team, Glinda. I hope your first shift goes well. Please do not hesitate if you have any questions."

I nod, smiling. "I will. Thank you."

After clocking in ShenShen shows me how to access charts and how to upload things into them. Then, we make our rounds.

The kids are so sweet and ask a million questions and of course, I answer as many of them as I can.

I also meet a lot of the staff. One of the doctors, Tibbet, and a nurse, Crope, remind me of my boys.

They'll need to come down soon for a visit. I miss them.

Around lunchtime, I get a text from Nessarose asking if I'm free for lunch.

I forgot she works on the other side of the hospital as a psychiatrist.

We meet up at the cafeteria.

"Hey." I smile, as Nessa wheels herself over.

"Hi. How's the first day going?" She asks as we pick up a couple of salads.

"Good. A girl in my wing has been showing me around. I've helped with a few IVs and intakes. Nothing too major yet. Though there was the kid who had playdough shoved up his nose. Not going to lie I'm kinda impressed."

Nessa nods and chuckles. "Good. I'm glad things are going well. Fae has been badgering me all day to check on you. She doesn't want to bother you." She says as we check out.

I giggle. "I'm sorry about that Nessa. If I had known I'd have called her or something." I say as we find a place to sit by the window.

Nessa waves me off. "Nah. You're good. I think it's cute. She loves you. I may be the younger sister, but if that girl doesn't marry you. She has another thing coming."

"Elphie better put a ring on it soon then." I wink.

"Damn right." Nessa nods, opening her water.

The rest of my shift went by smoothly as it could on the first day at a new hospital. There were a few bumps, but I got them worked out. Like paging the wrong doctor.

Oops...

I also texted Elphaba a few times to keep her updated so she'll give Nessa a break.

By the time I pull in the driveway, I'm ready for a hot shower and the woman I love.

When I walk in the door the lights are dimmed and soft music is playing in the background.

"Elphie, I'm home!" I say as I kick my shoes off and drop my bag.

She rounds the corner from the mudroom dressed in a sage green hoodie and gray joggers, holding a bouquet of pink roses. "Welcome home baby." She smiles, kissing me softly.

I reach up and cup her cheek, holding onto the kiss a little longer. "Thank you," I murmur on her lips.

"You're welcome, love." She grins, handing me the bouquet.

"These are beautiful, Elphie," I say, lifting them to my nose.

"My beautiful girl deserves beautiful things." She winks.

The butterflies in my stomach come alive as I look up into her sparkling green eyes.

"I love you," I tell her.

She smiles. "I love you."

I pull her down for a searing kiss. "Have you started dinner?" I ask, biting my lips.

She looks at me confused. "No. Why?"

I set the flowers down in an empty vase. I'll take care of them later.

I look back up at her, lustfully. "Good. I'll be your dinner tonight."

Her knees buckle slightly as she licks her lips. She picks me up and throws me over her shoulder, playfully as she books it for the stairs.

Good thing I changed and showered at work.

I love coming home to her.

Chapter Text

February 10th. The day that changed my life. The day I met the woman of my dreams.

Now I find myself giggling as we walk through the front door after coming back from our date at an upscale restaurant in Concord.

The waitress tried to ask for my number and Elphie got a little jealous.

It's the funniest thing I've ever seen.

"I don't know why you're laughing, Galinda. She was flirting with you the whole time. It's like she didn't know I was right there!" Elphaba glares at me as she loosens her tie.

I slip off my heels by the door and wrap my arms around her neck.

"Elphie, you're jealous. It's cute." I tell her.

She huffs and rolls her eyes. "I'm not jealous. She was just rude. That's all."

"You are! Baby, you were shooting daggers at the girl."

Elphaba shrugs. "I have no idea what you're talking about." She says and goes over and sits on the couch, taking her shoes off.

I chuckle and shake my head, walking over to her.

I stand behind her, running my hands down her chest.

I lean down close to her ear. "You know she's not my type, right? She wasn't tall enough."

Elphaba drops her head back to look at me. "What if she were my height?"

I smirk, a playful glint in my eyes. "She might have had a chance."

Elphaba groans. "Galinda."

I laugh come around and straddle her lap, taking her face in my hands. "You know I'm just joking, right? I love you and only you. These girls can flirt with me all they want, but the only one I want is you." I tell her.

Her hands settle on my thighs where my dress has ridden up, and she looks up at me. "I love you too."

I smile. "Good." I lean in and connect our lips passionately.

My hands slide down to the collar of her shirt, pulling her closer as I rock my hips into hers.

Her hands trail up to my ass. She gasps when her fingers meet the lacy thong I'm wearing.

I smirk against her lips, my hands pulling her tie free before working on the buttons of her shirt.

Her fingers dip underneath the band of my thong, pulling it to the side, exposing my folds.

I pull her shirt out of her pants and slip it down her shoulders, exposing her chest. I unclasp her bra, freeing her from it.

I knead her small but full, velvety breasts as I kiss her neck. She moans and I feel her growing harder under me.

I reach down and undo her belt and pants.

She takes her hands off me just long enough to lift her hips, pulling her pants and boxers down to her knees.

Her erection slaps against my folds. I grind along her length, gripping her shoulders as her hands find the zipper of my dress.

She helps me out of it and throws it to the side. I tangle my fingers in her hair as she latches onto my breast. A moan escapes my lips as she sucks my nipple.

My fingers dig into her shoulders as I grind on her harder, panting heavily as I already feel an orgasm coming on.

The head of her penis hits my clit relentlessly, almost teasingly. I can't take it.

I lift my hips off her and rub my clit as fast as I can until I'm coming over her with a silent scream.

My head falls to her shoulder as my body convulses in the best of ways as pleasure consumes me.

I take my fingers off with a soft whimper. Elphaba kisses the side of my head, holding me.

I lift my head and look at her guilty. "I'm sorry. I got selfish. I needed to cum."

She nods and kisses me softly. "I know. I'm surprised you held out as long as you did though."

I smile on her lips. "Me too."

I lower myself back down, her throbbing shaft making its home nestled between my folds.

I bite my lip as I meet her eyes. I reach down and take her shaft, positioning it at my entrance.

I sit down on her meaty shaft and moan as I'm filled by her.

Elphaba groans, her fingers digging into my ass cheeks as I move back and forth on her.

"You're so big Elphie." I purred into her ear as I started bouncing on her. "I want you to fill me with your seed baby."

"Fuck, Glinda." She moans.

I bounce a little too high and she falls out, but I quickly push her back in, moving my hips in circles this time. "Unh, you feel so good inside me, Elphie. I wish I could have you in me all the time." I tell her.

"There are things to clone someone's dick. I think we should try that." She winks.

I giggle and lean down, kissing her hard. "Yeah, but none of those can cum inside me like you can." I husk on her lips.

Elphaba smirks. "You want my cum, don't you baby?" She asks.

I nod, biting my lip. "So bad Elphie." I plead.

She picks me up and carries me up to our bedroom. She drops me on the bed and climbs on top of me, entering me with a single thrust. She drives her hips in fast and hard.

I reach into the nightstand and grab the rabbit-earred vibrator. I turn it on and push it into her, timing it with her gate.

"Oh, God Glinda." She moans, losing rhythm for a moment.

I grin and turn it up a little higher. "Shit." She groans, her movements becoming faster and messier. I hold the toy still inside her.

In her moment of weakness, I flip her over and ride her until we're both cumming hard.

We cry out as she fills me with endless ropes of cum and I squirt over her.

I turn the toy off and collapse on top of her. Elphaba wraps her arms around me, holding me close.

She sighs as she fills me with the last rope of her cum. "Happy anniversary, G." She smiles into my hair.

"Happy anniversary, Elphie." I smile and kiss her deeply.

She cups my face, working her tongue into my mouth. We make out until we're stated and breathless.

"I don't know about you, but I could go for another round." She says.

"You sure you're up for it?" I ask.

She nods. "Mmhm. This time, why don't we use the strap?"

I look at her devilishly. "I'm gonna fuck you so good."

I spring from the bed and go over to the box of fun in the closet and grab the strap. I come back out and Elphaba is propped up on a couple of pillows.

"Do you need help putting it on?" Elphaba asks, motioning to the five-inch neon pink dildo and matching harness.

She's the one who let me pick it out.

I shake my head and pull the harness on, tightening it once it's in the right places.

I stand at the end of the bed and smirk as I grab her ankles and pull her down, getting a surprised squeak from her.

"For your pint-sized self, damn, you're strong." She says.

I wink at her before getting on my knees between her legs. With two fingers I part her folds, dragging them from her cilt to her entrance and back up a few times before pushing my fingers in.

With each thrust, I curl my fingers up against her front wall. "Shit, baby." She moans.

I use my thumb to circle her clit while my left hand strokes her dick.

That's when I get the urge to do something I haven't done in a long time. I lean forward and press my lips to the head of her penis, engulfing it.

Elphaba looks down at me wide wide-eyed. "I thought you didn't like- oh fuck..." She groans as my tongue laps at the divot on her tip.

I work my way down, taking a little more than half of her in my mouth. Anymore and I might choke.

I pull my head up slowly, licking her tip once I'm at the top then I go back down.

Elphaba pulls my hair out of the way, guiding my head while I continue to finger her at the same time.

"Mmm... fuck, G..."

Elphaba rocks her hips against me as she gets closer, but I don't want her to cum yet.

I withdraw my fingers and my mouth as I stand up.

Elphaba looks up at me, not happy. "What the fuck, Galinda? That was starting to feel good!"

"I know, but I want you to cum on my cock." I tell her, pressing the tip of the strap against her clit. Then I move it down to her entrance, pushing in.

"Unh, yeah... okay." She says, wrapping her legs around me as I bury myself inside her.

I waste no time thrusting into her hard and fast because I know she's already pretty worked up. As much as I'd like to drag it out and tease her, I won't. I mean it is our anniversary after all.

Elphaba cups my face and pulls me down, kissing me hard. I smirk on her lips and reach down, stroking her dick, making her hips jerk. "Fuck, Galinda." She gasps.

Her member throbs in my hand as I stroke it tightly.

Her hands go down to my ass as she tries to guide me to go faster. I press my lips to her chest, teasing her breasts as I feel her get closer as it becomes harder to move the strap-on.

Her penis twitches and she gasps as she cums from my hand job. My hips keep going as I plunge into her still.

I take my hand off her cock and move it to her clit. Her breathing becomes heavier and her head presses back into the mattress.

"Oh, god..."

I lick my way up to her ear, nipping at her earlobe. My fingers flick over her clit. "I know you're close Elphie. Feel how I feel when you fuck me with your cock." I husk in her ear.

She moans softly and presses her heels into my ass to pull me in deeper. "You feel so good. I'm so close."

I lick the shell of her ear. "I know you are. You're getting so tight Elphie. Is this how I feel to you?"

Elphaba nods. "Yes..."

"Are you going to cum for me like a good girl?" I ask, pulling her clit.

"Yes... Yes!" She moans, her whole body convulses, her center, trapping me tightly inside her as she orgasms.

I leave kisses on her neck, jaw, and chest as she rides the wave.

When her body relaxes, her legs fall from my waist and the toy slips out of her, a disapproving whine leaves her lips. Now she knows how it feels.

I kiss her softly before getting up to take the harness off. When I look back up she's flipped around. Her head hangs off the edge of the bed while her feet are near the pillows.

Amused, "What are you doing?" I ask.

She reaches her hands out, grabbing my hips. "Come here." She says.

I take a step forward a little confused. Then, I feel her tongue between my folds. "Oh..." I moan, catching myself as I fall forward a bit.

She grins against me. We're not done yet.

After two more rounds, the last one being slow and soft, making love to each other. We decided to take a bath together. Elphaba ran downstairs and grabbed a bottle of wine and a couple of glasses. Now we sit in the tub, facing each other, sipping our wine.

"This has shaped up to be a great anniversary. I can't believe it's been a year. It hasn't even like a year." I say.

"No, it hasn't. I can't imagine what forever is going to feel like."

Butterflies erupt in my stomach. "Forever, huh?" I grin over my glass.

Elphaba nods. "If you'll have me."

I reach over the side of the tub and set my glass down. I swim forward and straddle her lap. I wrap my arms around her neck as her hands smooth over my hips.

I lean down and kiss her slowly. "Forever sounds pretty great to me," I tell her, fingering her braids. "There is just one thing, Elphie."

She cocks an eyebrow. "What would that be, Ms. Upland?"

I hold up my left hand. "This hand is looking kinda bare, don't you think?"

She groans playfully, her head falling back against the rim of the tub.

"You know that waitress from the restaurant would give me a ring in a heartbeat." I wink.

"Galinda!" She groans.

I laugh, kissing her. "I'm kidding. You're the one I want to spend forever with. I love you, Elphie."

"I love you too. I promise you'll get your ring when the time is right." She tells me.

I smirk, smoothing my hand over her braids. "I know. Wait too long and I'll have to go ask the waitress." I joke.

She gives me a look telling me she's not amused. "You love torturing me, don't you?"

I nod happily. "Yep!"

She shakes her head, smiling. "Happy anniversary Glinda."

"Happy anniversary Elphie."

Chapter Text

"Shell! Get out of there!" Elphaba tells her brother as he rummages through the toolbox in the trailer.

The Daytona 500 is today. One of the biggest races in NASCAR.

Elphaba is the number 2 seed today after qualifying yesterday. She's also projected to win.

There is a lot of pressure on her for this race. She's trying not to let it get to her, but she has her moments.

"Doc told me to grab something for him. Relax." Shell says then mumbles something under his breath.

Elphaba sighs. "Just don't break anything. Everything in this trailer costs more than you."

"I know," Shell says, grabbing what he needs and exiting the trailer.

"You were a little hard on him, don't you think?"

Elphaba sighs and drops her head. "I was. I'll make it up to him. I'm just stressed about this race."

I slide my arms around her waist and look up at her. "No matter the outcome I'll still be here. I know you don't want to let anyone down, but all you need to worry about is you and driving like hell out there."

She deflates a little, letting her guard down. "I know. This weight has been added to me since how I ended last season. Not to mention being a woman of color in a white male-dominated sport. I get scrutinized for everything I do. I have to win, G. Not just for me, but for everyone who looks up to me."

"Elphie, you're heart is too big for this world. I want to succeed. I don't want you to get hung up on the expectations that you lose sight of yourself. I understand that a lot is going on, but just promise me that you'll do this for yourself. "

She exhales. "Okay. I'm doing this for me. This race is for me. No one else."

I smile softly. "Remember, you are speed."

She laughs. "I am speed."

I bring her down for a kiss.

"Better?" I ask when it ends.

She nods biting her lip. "Mhm."

I pat her chest. "Good."

"Thropp! Let's go!" Dillamond yells.

"Coming!" She says. "I love you." She tells me.

I smile. "I love you too."

She pecks my lips before grabbing her helmet and running out of the trailer and to her car.

I exit the trailer and find Shell already in the pit box with Melena and Papa.

The National Anthem plays then Elphaba does her little prayer before putting her helmet on and climbing to her car. Her crew makes sure she's secured before the Grand Marshall tells the drivers to start their engines.

They're led out by the pace car and do a couple of laps to warm up their tires before the green flag drops and they're off!

In the first three quarters of the race, Elphaba holds her position in second. In the last quarter, we're all on the edge of our seats as Elphaba slips into first.

"She's going to do it," Melena says as we hold hands.

Papa, ever cautiously optimistic, "The race isn't over yet."

Melena rolls her eyes. We all know she's gonna win.

Then comes the last lap.

The four of us jump to our feet as the checkered flag drops.

Elphie is in her own world, no one behind her. She comes speeding towards the finish line, crossing it within seconds.

The other drivers were a ways behind her.

She's done it. She's really done it.

Elphaba has won the Daytona 500.

Shell screams and jumps around pulling me with him as we celebrate.

We get down to the pit as Elphaba does her burnout for the crowd before coming in and doing another one.

She climbs out and stands on top of her car, pulling her helmet off. She lets out a victorious scream and waves to the fans in the stands before climbing down.

The pit crew rushes to her, dog piling her, celebrating.

Then she moves to Dillamond, hugging him and lifting him off the ground.

Diggs gives her a handshake and a pat on the back.

Then, Shell rushes to her, jumping on her. She laughs and hugs him back before Papa and Melena hug her too.

Melena tells her something as her eyes meet mine.

Elphaba makes her way over to me, but a media person gets to her first asking her how she's feeling about the race.

"It feels great. I love Daytona. It's one of my favorite places to race. I  felt good today. I had a lot of pressure on me to win this one and I'm so glad I did. I was number two for a majority of the race then I had an opening and I took it. I couldn't be prouder of this win today. Especially because my family was able to make it out here with me. I couldn't have done this without them," Elphaba smiles.

The reporter thanks her before turning back to the camera.

Elphaba sneaks over to me and sweeps me off my feet, hugging me tight. "Thank you." She mumbles into my hair.

"It was all you Elphie," I tell her.

"Still. I couldn't have done it without you. I love you." She tells me.

I smile. "I love you too."

She leans down and kisses me softly before we walk over to Dillamond and Diggs as they talk with Shell, Melena, and Papa as the car gets inspected by NASCAR officials so they can make sure nothing was tampered with.

We chat while the cars are inspected.

Once the cars are inspected and the official results are in we head up to victory lane where Elphaba is presented with her trophy and is doused with champagne by her crew team.

She gives a couple of interviews and signs a couple of things for fans and just like that it's over.

She changes into jeans and a t-shirt and we head back to the hotel.

We get back to the hotel and change into something nice but still kinda casual as Diggs is taking everyone out for dinner to celebrate.

"I was so worried about letting people down today. I didn't even get to enjoy the race. They go by so fast. Literally. I was consumed by the thought of what people might say or do if I didn't win. I didn't even have fun." Elphaba says, putting her gold Cuban chain on.

"How does that make you feel?" I ask next to her as I put my earrings in.

She shrugs. "Weird. Like, I'm grateful for the attention, but at the same time, it's taking away the fun of what I do, you know?" She blows out a breath. "Like, I'm not enjoying racing anymore. It just feels like a job right now."

I clasp my earring and turn to her. "What are you saying? Do you want to quit racing?" I ask.

Elphaba shakes her head. "No. Not right now. A break might be nice," She wraps her arms around me, pulling me in. "It'd be nice to spend some time with you. More than two days a week because I'm always gone. I just need to fall back in love with racing again."

I loop my arms around her neck, playing with the braids on the back of her head. "You know I will support you no matter what. I want what is best for you. Even if it means taking a break from racing, I don't think you should make any decisions tonight. Talk to Dillamond, your mom, whoever. See what they think."

Elphaba nods. "I'll bring it up at dinner. See what they think. Diggs probably won't like it because then he's losing money, but oh well."

I fix the collar of her shirt, bring her down for a kiss they we quickly end up getting lost in.

Then Shell walks in.

"Oh, come on really!" He exclaims, covering his eyes.

I laugh, burying my face in Elphie's chest.

"Relax, dude. It's not like you walked in on us doing it." Elphaba says.

"I'm scared for life because of you two." He says, lowering his hand from his eyes.

Let's just say Shell came over one time and Elphaba and I were being rather passionate on the couch. He will no longer even look at said couch. I don't really see the problem. We had a towel down.

Elphaba chuckles. "It was one time."

"I saw things I never want to see again." He says.

"Well, now you know not to come over before texting one of us," Elphaba says.

"Now I do." He shudders. "Anyway, Mom wanted me to tell you we're heading down to the lobby. Diggs is waiting for us."

"We'll be down in a second," I tell him, pulling myself away from Elphaba to grab my purse.

Shell leaves and Elphaba does a once-over of herself while I fix my lipstick. Once that's done we head down to the lobby where everyone is waiting for us.

We load up into the cars and head to a very nice restaurant in the heart of the city.

When we get there we're taken to a private room so no one will bother us.

Flutes of champagne are passed around and Diggs stands to make a toast.

"To Elphaba and your incredible driving, but also to your crew for keeping you at your best. May this be your championship year."

Everyone claps and Elphaba smiles, but it doesn't quite meet her eyes.

Melena and Dillamond look at me curiously as they sense the shift in Elphaba. "Later." I mouth to them. They nod in response.

Elphaba stands, raising her glass. "Thank you. I say this to everyone... even you Shell. Without you all I would not be where I am now. So thank you."

We take a drink and she sits down. I rest my hand on her thigh and she reaches down, squeezing my hand. I lean over and kiss her cheek.

After dinner on the walk back to our rooms, Papa pulls me aside. "She's not thinking about retirement, is she?"

I shake my head. "No, but she is thinking about a break. She told me today that racing felt like a job. Not like something she enjoys. She's really been feeling the pressure lately." I tell him.

"I'm guessing no one else knows this?"

I shake my head. "I think she was going to talk to Melena tonight. She's struggling, Papa. To be honest, I'm really worried about her."

He nods. "Me too. I'd hate to see her give this season up, but if her mind is not right, I support her."

"That's what I told her. I also told her not to make any decisions tonight." I say.

"We'll pray that she listens." He says.

I laugh as we get to his door. "Good night Papa."

"Good night Ms. Glinda." He smiles before opening his door.

I walk down to the room I share with Elphie and Melena walks out.

"She's serious, isn't she?" I ask.

Melena nods. "She said she'd sit out at least the next race and see how she feels. She is going to talk to Diggs and Dillamond in the morning."

"Good. Give her the night to think." I say.

Melena brings me in for a hug and kisses my cheek before going down the hall to her room after saying good night.

I walk into the room and Elphie is changing into her pajamas. I set my purse down and kick my shoes off.

"I know you weren't feeling your best today out there, but you kinda are the first woman to win the Daytona 500 and I'm really proud of you and I'd really like to show you," I tell her, pushing her down on the bed.

She grins, pulling me on top of her. "Yes, please."

I run my hand down her bare torso, cupping her crotch. "You'd better be ready Thropp."

Chapter Text

"Honey, I really think you should call out today. You don't look good." Elphaba says.

I scuff. "I'm fine Elphie. It's just a little congestion. Nothing I can't handle."

She looks at me warily. "Alright. I'm still stopping by for lunch though. I'm also going to have Nessa come by and check on you periodically." She says, pressing a kiss to my head.

I smile up at her, caressing her cheek. "I wouldn't expect anything less. I love you."

"I love you more." She tells me.

"Impossible." I grin as I kiss her.

She walks me to the door and kisses me a final time before I leave.

When I get to the hospital my head is pounding. I take some medicine which seems to help.

I head in and drop my stuff off before checking in.

I check in and do my rounds before going to the nurses' station to do some reports. ShenShen is off today so I'm kinda lonely.

Then Nessa comes rolling in. "I've been advised to come check on you by you know who." She winks.

I roll my eyes. "I'm fine Nessa, really. It's just some congestion. It's not like the flu. I already tested myself."

"Any other symptoms?" She asks.

Now that I think about it I have been a little nauseous and tired. I've taken a nap almost every day after work.

Then it clicks...

I haven't had my period since before Daytona.

I drop the file on the desk. I gulp, the blood draining from my face.

"Uh, Nessa, when you found out you were pregnant with Ellie what symptoms did you have?" I ask.

"You're nauseous and tired too, aren't you?" She asks.

I nod.

"You haven't had your period, either?"

I nod.

Then she starts to roll away, but stops turns around. "Well, are you coming?"

I nod slowly and get up from the desk and follow her to the ER. She goes to the supply room and grabs a box of pregnancy tests.

She hands them to me and we head to the locker room.

So... I might be pregnant. Okay, yeah, alright. I'm fine. I'm totally fine. It's not like I'm about to find out whether my life will never be the same or not.

"Hey, it's okay," Nessa says softly.

I nod and blow out a slow breath. I head into one of the stalls and take the test. I come out and set it on the counter so I can wash my hands.

"I've been in your shoes, Glinda. Your mind is racing a million miles a minute trying to figure out when it could have happened. I know you're wishing Fae were here so you could find out together. You're trying to figure out what's next and how life is going to look from now on. It's all normal." Nessa says.

I stare into the mirror, scared. "I'm not ready for this Nessa. It's too soon."

She nods, understanding. "No one is ever truly ready. No matter how much you say you are. Boq and I definitely weren't. We've kept that munchkin alive for the last three years so I say we're doing good."

I chuckle. "You guys do have a pretty cute kid."

"She's a menace half the time but we love her," Nessa says with a fond smile.

"You think Elphaba and I will be okay at this?" I ask.

"I do. You both have a good head on your shoulders, you both have a big heart and you know how to communicate. You'll be just fine."

"I hope so. Here Elphie thinks I'm sick. She has no idea I might be pregnant." I say, looking down at the test that is still flipped over.

Nessa rolls over, taking my hand. "She loves you, Glinda. She could never be upset at you. Expect that one time you ate her baklava that she saved from Papa's birthday party."

I laugh. "She didn't speak to me for a whole day! You would have thought I tore her signed Richard Petty poster she has in the garage."

Nessa laughs, shaking her head. "I think I need to have a little chat with her. Her reactions are a little messed up."

"Amen, sister."

The timer on my watch goes off and my heart stops for a beat and my hands get sweaty.

I blow out a breath and look at Nessa. She gives a reassuring nod.

I wring my hands and grab the test.

I flip it over and there are two pink lines.

I'm pregnant.

With shaking hands I turn to Nessa, showing her the test.

"How do you feel?"

"Scared. I'm so fucking scared."

"I'd be worried if you weren't." She smiles. She holds out her arms and I bend down to hug her, letting the tears run free.

"You're not in this alone Glinda. We're all here for you. You're going to be okay. I promise. It takes a village."

I sniffle and nod. "You're part of that village, right?"

Nessa smiles softly. "Always. Now, dry your eyes and straighten yourself out. Right now children are counting on you to help them get better."

I stand up and wipe my eyes, turning to look in the mirror, fixing myself. I take a breath. "It's going to be okay," I whisper to myself.

I turn back to Nessa. "Thank you for being here."

She grins. "Always. You're family Glinda."

I smile and give her a quick hug before I put the test in my locker so I can show it to Elphaba when I get home.

Wait.

She's coming by for lunch. Oh god.

I just need to wait until tonight. It will be better that way.

Can I make it through lunch though without letting it slip?

We shall see...

By the time lunch rolls around I'm increasingly nervous. As Elphaba walks towards the nurses' station with a to-go bag from one of our favorite lunch spots Nessa texts me.

"You got this." She writes.

I smile and pocket my phone before getting up to greet my girlfriend.

"Are you lost, ma'am?" I tease.

Elphaba smirks, playing along. "You know, I might be. I'm looking for my smoking hot girlfriend. She told me to meet her in the cafeteria, but I'm not sure where that is."

I bite my lip, tossing my hair. "If I were your girlfriend I'd never let you out of my sight. You're too hot to be left alone."

She chuckles, setting the bag on the counter, looking around. "Good thing my girlfriend trusts me." She says, wrapping her arms around my waist.

I splay my hands over her chest. "Would she be okay with this?" I ask, looking into a pair of green eyes.

She smirks, leaning down. "I won't tell if you don't." She winks.

I grin, leaning up to kiss her softly.

"Hi, Elphie." I smile when the kiss ends.

"Hi, baby." She says.

"Just to make sure, you're not kissing any other woman when I'm not around, right?" I ask.

She laughs. "No baby. You're the only one I'm kissing." She says.

I nod. "Good." Oh, and one more thing you knocked me up. "Now, lunch?" I ask.

She grabs the bag from the counter and takes my hand. "Lead the way, beautiful."

I take her down to the cafeteria and we sit in the quieter part of the room.

Elphaba takes the food out of the bag and we dig in.

"Diggs called me today." She says.

"What'd he have to say?"

"He's threatening to drop me if I don't go to Bristol next week. It's all about the money for him. I'm his best driver and without me, he's tanking." She explains.

I place my sandwich on the wrapper. "Can he do that? I thought he cared about the well-being of his people." I ask, surprised.

Elphie shrugs. "I don't know. Word has gotten out about it and things aren't looking good for him. James, my agent said teams are reaching out to him about me should I decide to leave Diggs. Right now, it seems like the best decision."

"Does that mean you're going to start racing again?"

She shakes her head. "Not unless I have a team. I've been playing around with the go-karts and I honestly forgot how fun they were. Anyway, how are you feeling?"

"First, I'm glad you're finding the joy again." I hesitate for a moment. "I'm feeling better. I took some allergy meds when I got in." I lie, trying like hell not to tell her the truth. "Nessa has been keeping a close eye on me too."

Elphie nods, seeming to accept my answer. This is so hard to keep away from her. I hate lying to her.

"G, you alright? You spaced out for a second." She asks.

I focus my attention back on her and clear my throat. "Yeah, I'm fine. It's just been a busy morning."

Her head tilts, eyes narrowing slightly. "What are you hiding?"

Shit.

My palms start to get sweaty and I feel like I cannot breathe. I have to tell her. I can't hide this from her any longer.

"Baby, what's wrong?" She asks softly.

I swallow. "I-I need to tell you something, but I can't tell you here."

"Okay. Can we go somewhere? You're freaking me out." She says.

I wordlessly stand up, picking up my scraps and throwing them away. I look back at Elphaba and she scrambles to get up and does the same.

I take her to the locker room, locking the door behind hs after making sure no one else is in the room with us.

Before I open my locker I tell Elphie to sit down.

She sits down on the bench across from me.

I grab the test from my locker and hide it behind my back.

"Before I show you this, you have to promise me this will not influence whether or not you go back to racing," I tell her.

She crosses her heart. "Scout's honor."

I nod, taking a breath. With a shaky hand, I hold out the test to her.

She gasps, taking the test gently from my hands.

"Is this...." She asks, looking between me and the test.

I nod. "Yes. I took it this morning when Nessa kinda helped me piece everything together when I told her my symptoms."

"You're pregnant," Elphaba says softly.

I bite my lip. "I am Elphie," I tell her, smiling through tears.

She smiles, her eyes watery. "We're going to have a baby."

I chuckle, feeling the relief wash over me. "Yeah, we are," I tell her.

She pulls me between her legs, resting her head against my stomach. "I love you." She tells.

I chuckle. "Which one of us?" I ask, playing with her braids.

She looks up at me with a love-sick grin. "Both of you." She says.

"We love you too, Elphie," I tell her, leaning down to kiss her.

"You do know what this means, right?" She asks, breaking the kiss.

I look at her confused. "What?"

"You're going to have to marry me." She says.

I laugh. "Like you don't already have a ring and I haven't already started my Pinterest board."

She looks at me with wide eyes. "How did you know?"

"One word. Shell."

She groans, her forehead resting against me. "I knew I shouldn't have told him."

"Mistake number one. Mistake number two was confirming my suspicions." I smirk.

"I need to keep my mouth shut from now on." She brushes her fingers over my stomach. "Hey, little one, just so you're prepared, your Mama can be an idiot sometimes. For example, spoiling my plans to marry your Mommy." She says.

"Mama, huh?" I ask, eyebrow arched.

She looks up at me sheepishly. "Yeah, I thought it sounded good. Unless you want to be Mama."

I smile down at her, cupping her cheek. "Mama, fits you Elphie."

She turns her head, kissing my palm. "Mommy fits you pretty well too, G."

I think we're going to be alright.

Chapter Text

I stir awake as I feel something between my legs. "Mmm, Elphie?" I ask, reaching beside me.

The space is empty.

I scrunch my eyebrows together. "Humph."

I lift the covers and there she is, sound asleep, her head resting on my hip, her arms wrapped protectively around me.

I reach down, running my fingers through her braids.

I shouldn't be surprised to find her like this. Almost every morning since we found out I'm with child at some point in the night we end up in this position.

Elphie stirs, nuzzling her face into my hip. She moans and continues to sleep.

"Elphie," I say softly.

"No..." She grumbles, snuggling closer.

"Babe, I need to pee and you're lying on top of me."

She groans and rolls over, letting me out of bed.

When I come back from the bathroom she's in the same position I left her. I climb back into bed and she resumes her previous position.

Elphaba presses her lips to my skin, making me giggle as it tickles.

Then, she climbs up beside me, her hand resting under my shirt.

I turn my head and cover her hand with mine.

"Good morning, Elphie."

She smiles and kisses me softly. "Good morning."

I rest my head on her shoulder and close my eyes as her thumb draws gentle circles over my skin.

"Will you marry me?" Elphie murmured into my hair.

My head shoots up to look at her. "What?"

She laughs and gets off the bed and walks over to her dresser, digging around in the bottom drawer until she finds what she's looking for. She comes back over and gets down on one knee, opening the box.

I gasp and sit up. "Elphie..." I say softly looking at her with teary eyes.

"Galinda Adruenna Upland," She starts. Her eyes are watery. "From the first time I saw you at that bar I knew I wanted you in my life. Then, after a night of bonding over milkshakes and fries in that little diner, I knew I wanted to make you mine. Never would I have thought I would find someone so loving and accepting like you. Nor did I ever think I'd have the privilege to ask someone to be my forever. You're my forever Galinda. Will you do me the honor of being my forever?" She asks, hands shaking, tears sliding down her cheeks.

I nod my head, a sob leaving my lips. "Yes, Elphie, I will be your forever."

"Yeah?" She asks with a smile.

"Yes," I say and fling myself into her arms.

"I love you." She tells me, holding me close.

"I love you too, Elphie." I smile into her neck.

I pull back and kiss her with everything I have, leaving us both breathless.

"Oh, God, I was so nervous." She chuckles, resting her forehead against mine.

I playfully gasp. "Elphaba Thropp gets nervous?"

She laughs softly. "You make me nervous. Whether it's getting ready for a date night or bringing you lunch or surprising you with flowers. The butterflies never stop. They will never stop."

I peck her lips. "I'm already marrying you and carrying your child, you don't have to flatter me."

She smirks. "I'll never stop." She picks me up and lays me down on the bed.

She hovers over me, kissing my neck.

A low moan leaves my throat. "Mmm, Elphie, I love that you want to celebrate so soon, but a girl needs her ring first."

She chuckles and sits up, looking around.

She finds it on the floor next to the bed. She kneels and picks up the box. She looks up at me and smiles taking my left hand as she takes the ring out of the box.

Elphie slides the ring on my finger and I gasp when I finally get a good look at it.

A princess-cut diamond sits upon a gold band encrusted with smaller diamonds and emerald stones.

"Baby it's beautiful," I tell her.

"You like it?"

"Yes Elphie," I smile. I lean forward and cup her face, kissing her passionately.

I fall back, bringing her with me.

Her lips make a path down the hollow of my throat while her hands inch their way under my shirt up to my breasts which have filled out a little more since becoming pregnant. I won't complain.

Neither will Elphaba.

I sit up slightly and wiggle my way out of my shirt and Elphie smiles as she kisses down my chest.

Her tongue rolls over my nipple and I arch into her. She smirks and does it again as her hands travel down my back and under my sleep pants, pulling them off me, leaving me completely naked.

She leans back in, but I stop her with a hand to the forehead, playfully pushing her back. "Um, excuse me, I'm not going to be the only naked one here. Strip, Thropp."

She growls and stands up, taking her clothes off. "Better?" She asks, her hands thrown out at her sides.

I bite my lip, looking her up and down. "Much." I reach out to grab her hips. "Come here," I say, pulling her on top of me.

She chuckles against my lips. "Insatiable."

"Damn right!" I say.

She smirks as her fingers find my clit and a moan leaves my mouth.

Her mouth finds my chest again and my fingers tangle in her hair.

She dips a finger into my entrance. "Mm, you're so wet, baby." She says as she drags her lips down my torso.

She adds a second finger as I widen my legs to make more room for her as her lips press against my inner thigh as she pumps her fingers inside me.

"Fuck..."

Elphaba moves her lips closer and closer until her tongue is lapping over my clit. My hips buck into her face and she has to use her other arm to hold my hips down so I don't break her nose.

My fingers tighten in her hair as her fingers curl up against my front wall, exposing the spot that sets me off.

Her tongue traces wild patterns on my clit and I feel like I can't breathe. "Elphie, baby, I need more!"

She adds a third finger and I welcome the pleasurable stretch of my entrance.

With my free hand, I reach up and knead my breast, rolling my nipple between my fingers.

My back arches and my orgasm washes over me fast and hard as I scream Elphaba's name.

She lets up and helps me ride it out before withdrawing her fingers.

She keeps her mouth on me, tapping my clit with her tongue, making me whimper. She swirls her tongue around my entrance a couple of times before softly kissing her way up my body.

I pull her in for a deep kiss before flipping her over on her back. Her hands stake their claim on my hips as I straddle her.

"Hello." She smirks.

"Hi," I say, grinding down on her hard, throbbing penis.

Elphaba groans as I reach behind me to rub her clit. "Fuck."

I push a finger into her, feeling how turned on she is. Then, an idea pops into my head.

I get off her and grab the dildo that she likes before returning to the bed.

"What are you doing?" She asks, propping herself up on a few pillows.

I don't say a thing as I take the dildo out of the harness and straddle her backwards.

"Ooo, I like this." She says, grabbing my ass.

"I knew you would," I tell her over my shoulder.

I gather some of her wetness and spread it over the dildo before lining it up with her entrance.

"Fuck, G..."

I slowly push the dildo into her as I line her cock up with my core, sitting down on it at the same time I push in the dildo.

Once buried inside each other I give it a few moments before sitting up then sitting back down on her dick while I thrust the dildo in and out of her at the same time.

Her hands slide around to my waist to guide me as I ride her backwards.

Just to tease her I pull the toy out fully then push it back in a few times.

"Galinda..." She whines.

I giggle and push the toy back in, thrusting in time with my hips.

Abruptly, she sits up and wraps her arms around me, moving her hips with mine. She moves my hair out of the way and kisses the spot just behind my ear.

"Look at you beautiful, fucking yourself while fucking me. It's hot." She moans in my ear, nudging me to look in the mirror across the room.

We both look in the mirror at the same time, our eyes meeting as we watch ourselves together. Where I end, she starts.

We're one.

Elphie moves her hands to my breasts, squeezing them as she moans in my ear, the dildo becoming harder to move.

She moves a hand down and stops my hand that is pumping the dildo into her.

"That feels really good baby, but I want to focus on you right now." She presses her lips to my neck and I whimper as she pinches my nipple.

She takes the dildo out and places it to the side. She takes her hand and puts it on my clit, rubbing lightly as we look in the mirror, her dick disappearing into me with every move of my hips.

My head falls back on her shoulder. "Fuck Elphie." I gasp, covering her hands with mine.

She smiles into my neck before pulling out and turning me on my back. Elphaba moves between my legs and renters me, my legs wrapping around her waist.

She leans down and kisses me sensually as she moves slowly and deeply, making love to me.

I thread my fingers through her braids, trying to bring her tighter, closer to me, anything.

I don't want to let her go.

"I got you baby." She whispers as I cling to her.

I wrap my arms around her neck, my fingers digging into her shoulders as the finish line nears.

"Elphie, I-"

She looks deep into my eyes. "I know."

I arch into her and gasp as I cum around her like never before.

My soul leaves my body.

Elphaba moans above me, her hips stopping for a second before resuming her movements.

I crash our lips together. "Cum for me, Elphaba," I say on her lips.

She moans and her hips jerk forward as she cums inside me.

I sigh blissfully as she fills me.

When she finishes she goes to pull out, but I stop her. "Not yet," I murmur against her lips.

She nods and turns us on our sides, still connected. She pushes a piece of hair out of my face and smiles.

"I love you so much, Galinda."

"I love you more, Elphie," I tell her, bringing her in for a kiss.

I grab her hip, pulling her in as I kiss her deeper.

My hand slots between her legs as she throws one over my thigh. I enter her with two fingers.

She gasps and rocks into my hand, causing her penis to shift inside me.

"Glinda..."

I kiss down her neck as I finger her.

She pushes me on my back, her cock falling out of me. She straddles my thighs as I enter her again.

She rides my fingers hard, looking impatiently for her release.

When she does arrive at her release she cums hard, her walls crushing my fingers inside her.

When her walls relax I pull my fingers out and bring them up to my lips, sucking them clean while she pants on top of me.

"Delicious." I wink.

She laughs and lies down next to me, running her fingers through her braids.

I turn over and throw my arm over her waist, pressing a kiss to her chest. "Hey, Thropp?" I ask.

She cocks an eyebrow. "Yes, Upland?"

"You know you're really stuck with me right? Between the baby and the ring. You can never get rid of me."

She chuckles. "Oh, I know." She kisses my forehead. "I don't want a life without you in it."

I smile up at her. "You have me, Elphie. For life."

I can't wait to marry this woman.